Insurance Repair Specialists in Washington, Tyne & Wear
Had an accident? Whether it was your fault or not, Hoggett Automotive & AJM Bodyshop can handle the repair and help you through the insurance process from start to finish.
Based in Washington (near Sunderland, Durham & Newcastle), we carry out everything from light scuffs and scrapes to full accident repairs – all to a high, bodyshop-standard finish.
---
Can I Choose Where My Car Is Repaired?
Yes.
Even if your insurer suggests one of their own repairers, you are legally entitled to choose your own bodyshop.
Many drivers prefer to use a trusted, local specialist. We repair vehicles for customers every week who have simply told their insurer:
> “I’d like my vehicle repaired at Hoggett Automotive / AJM Bodyshop in Washington.”
We’ll guide you on exactly what to say if you’re unsure.
---
What We Do on Insurance Jobs
Accident damage repairs – bumper scuffs, dents, panels, scratches, crash damage
Structural & cosmetic repairs – from bolt-on panels to more in-depth bodywork
Paintwork & refinishing – colour-matched resprays and blending
Alloy wheel damage – kerbed, scuffed or scraped wheels
Mechanical checks and repairs where required as part of the claim
Before & after photo reports for your insurer and your records
Our aim is simple:
✅ Your car back safe, straight and looking right
✅ Minimal hassle dealing with the insurance company
---
How the Insurance Repair Process Works
1. Contact us first (before the insurer if you can)
Send us photos or pop in so we can see the damage and advise you on the best way to go through insurance.
2. We assess and estimate the damage
We inspect your vehicle and prepare a detailed estimate that your insurer can understand and approve.
3. You tell the insurer you want to use us
During the claim call, just confirm you want your vehicle repaired at Hoggett Automotive / AJM Bodyshop in Washington. We can help you with the wording if needed.
4. We liaise with the insurance company where possible
We’ll supply photos, estimates and updates so the admin isn’t all on you.
5. We repair your vehicle
Your car is repaired by experienced body and paint technicians using professional equipment in our Washington workshop.
6. Quality check and handover
We carry out final checks, clean the vehicle and walk you around the car so you’re happy before you drive away.
---
Why Use Hoggett Automotive & AJM Bodyshop for Insurance Repairs?
Local, independent specialists – real people you can speak to, not a call centre
High-standard body and paintwork – we’re a repair-focused business, not a production line
Honest advice – we’ll tell you if it’s better as an insurance claim or a private repair
Clear communication – photos, updates and realistic timescales
All types of damage – from car park dings to more serious accident damage
---
Fault vs Non-Fault Claims
We can help with:
Non-fault accidents – where somebody else has hit your vehicle
Fault claims – where the damage will go through your own policy
Not sure which applies to you? Get in touch and we’ll talk it through in plain English.
---
Private Repair vs Insurance Repair
Sometimes it makes more sense not to involve your insurance – for example on smaller repairs where the cost is close to your excess.
We’re happy to:
Price the damage as a private job
Price the damage as an insurance job
…then explain the difference so you can make the right decision for you and your no-claims bonus.
---
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you deal with all insurers?
We work with customers insured by most major UK insurance companies. If you can choose your repairer, you can choose us.
Will using my own bodyshop affect my policy?
No – you are allowed to choose. Your insurer may recommend their own network, but it’s your car and your choice of repairer.
Can you help with photos and information for my insurer?
Yes. We can take clear photos, write up the damage and provide estimates to support your claim.
What areas do you cover?
We’re based in Washington, ideally placed for Sunderland, Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle and the wider North East.
---
Book an Insurance Repair Assessment
07840125842
We are committed to providing excellent customer service and ensuring our clients are satisfied with the results. Our team will work with you to get your vehicle back on the road as quickly as possible.
We understand that auto body repairs can be expensive. That's why we offer competitive pricing and will work with your insurance company to make sure you get the best deal possible.