5 Things That Could Void Your Insurance After a Repair Job

If your car gets fixed and you later make an insurance claim, you expect to be covered. However, some common repair choices can quietly void your policy.

This guide explains five things that can lead to a denied claim, why they matter, and exactly what to do to protect your cover.

Keep reading, these tips are simple and will save you a lot of stress down the road.

1) Using unapproved or aftermarket parts

Why it matters:

• Insurers expect repairs to meet the vehicle maker’s safety and performance standards.
• Aftermarket or cheap parts can change how your car behaves in a crash or cause other faults.

How can this void your claim:

• If an aftermarket part is linked to the damage or makes the vehicle unsafe, your insurer might refuse the claim.
• Not disclosing to the workshop or insurer that you want non-genuine parts can appear as if you are hiding important information.

How to avoid problems:

• Ask your repairer if they’ll use genuine or OEM parts. If they won’t, get this in writing.
• Keep receipts and detailed invoices listing part brands and part numbers.
• Tell your insurer about any non-genuine parts before you drive the car again.

What to do if it’s already done:

• Get a written statement from the repairer explaining why the part was used and confirming fitment.
• Ask for a safety inspection report from a qualified mechanic to show the car is roadworthy.

2) Not using licensed or certified repairers

Why it matters:

• Approved workshops follow recognised repair methods. That matters when safety or structural work is involved.
• DIY or uncertified work may miss hidden damage.

How can this void your claim:

• Insurers expect repairs by reputable businesses. Work from an unlicensed or inexperienced person can lead to claims being denied.

How to avoid problems:

• Choose repairers with proper accreditation or membership in a recognised industry body.
• Keep proof of the repairer’s qualifications and a detailed invoice.
• If you choose a mobile service, check their qualifications and ask for references.

What to do if this has already happened:

• Get a second opinion from a certified workshop.
• Request any test or safety certificates and pass them to your insurer.

3) Failing to report modifications or add-ons

Why it matters:

• Changes like lift kits, big wheels, engine tweaks, or darker-than-legal window tinting can affect risk profiles.
• Some modifications increase accident risk, change repair costs, or make the vehicle unroadworthy.

How can this void your claim:

• Failing to disclose modifications when asked can be considered a breach of non-disclosure. That can invalidate a claim or even the whole policy.

What to avoid:

• Don’t assume small changes don’t matter! Always tell your insurer.
• Modifications done without professional fitment or paperwork are risky.

Practical steps:

• Before making changes, read your policy and check any limits.
• Tell your insurer as soon as a modification is fitted.
• Keep receipts, photos, and fitment certificates.

Note on cosmetic upgrades:

• Even cosmetic work, such as a new paint job or ceramic coatings, can impact value or necessitate repair methods.
• If you’ve had a recent coating applied, keep the invoice and product details for the insurer.
• For more information about professional ceramic service options, see our ceramic coating packages.

4) Driving the car before important repairs are finished

Why it matters:

• Some repairs are safety-critical. For example, steering, brake, or structural work must be completed correctly.
• Driving before repairs are finished can cause more damage or accidents.

How can this void your claim:

• Suppose an accident occurs because the car wasn’t fully repaired. In that case, an insurer can argue that the driver acted negligently and deny coverage.

How to avoid problems:

• Obtain a clear, written handover that lists all completed work and outstanding issues.
• Don’t sign off on repairs you haven’t inspected or tested.
• If you must drive a newly repaired car, take a short, cautious test drive near the workshop and keep it documented.

What to do if you have already driven it:

• Get an inspection and a full report from a licensed mechanic.
• Pass the inspection and any photos to your insurer quickly.

5) Not notifying your insurer after a repair or alteration

Why it matters:

• Insurers need accurate, up-to-date information to assess risk and premiums.
• Repairs and alterations can change the replacement cost or safety profile.

How can this void your claim:

• Late notification or failing to mention repairs can be seen as misleading. That can lead to partial or full denial of a future claim.

Best practice:

• Notify your insurer immediately after any major repair, crash repair, or modification.
• Provide copies of invoices, repair notes, and photos.
• Ask your insurer whether the repair affects your cover and get any confirmation in writing.

If you’re unsure what your policy covers, check your insurer’s terms and conditions. For those that don’t have insurance yet, we recommend obtaining a comprehensive car insurance policy from a provider like NRMA Insurance for the most robust coverage.

Quick checklist to protect your cover

• Use certified repairers or get a second opinion.
• Keep every invoice, part number, and receipt.
• Request written details of the repairs made and the reasons for them.
• Inform your insurer about any parts, modifications, or major repairs as soon as possible.
• Keep photos before, during, and after repairs.

A note about window tinting and coatings

Some add-ons like window tinting and ceramic coatings are common and often fine. But they can affect claims if they’re illegal, poorly fitted, or not disclosed. If you use a mobile installer, check their credentials and get a written job sheet.

When a claim is denied, what to do next

• Read the denial letter carefully and note the exact reason.
• Gather all relevant documentation, including invoices, photos, certificates, and communications.
• Ask for a review or internal dispute resolution with your insurer.
• If needed, contact an independent consumer advocate or legal advisor for help.

Final words

A denied claim is stressful, but many denials are avoidable. Be upfront, get work done by qualified people, and keep clear records.

Take small steps now: receipts, photos, and a qualified fitter can save a huge headache later.

Use the checklist above, contact your repairer for clear paperwork, and review your policy before making any changes. Stay safe, and keep your cover solid.