GuidesGetting the Right Repair Quote

Getting the Right Repair Quote

What garages should include in your repair quote and why proper itemisation matters for your claim.

4 min read
Updated 2026-01-12
Reviewed for UK law

At a glance

How many quotes
One detailed quote is usually sufficient; two can strengthen your claim
Quote or invoice
Either works — an invoice is stronger as it proves the work was done
Must include
Garage details, vehicle identification, itemised parts, labour costs, VAT breakdown, and a date and reference
Choice of garage
Main dealer or independent — councils cannot insist you use the cheapest option
Pro tip
Ask the garage to note the damage is consistent with hitting a pothole or road defect

Why Your Quote Matters

Your repair quote or invoice is the foundation of your financial claim. A vague or poorly structured quote makes it easy for councils to question your costs. A detailed, professional quote leaves little room for dispute.

Pro tip

Ask the garage to explicitly note that the damage is consistent with hitting a pothole or road defect. This adds professional credibility to your claim.

What a Good Quote Includes

Garage Details

Name, address, contact details, and company header

Vehicle Identification

Registration number, make, model, and year

Itemised Parts

Each part listed separately with description and cost

Labour Costs

Hourly rate and estimated time for each task

VAT Breakdown

Net amount, VAT amount, and gross total

Date and Reference

Quote date and unique reference number

Typical Repair Costs

Here's what you might expect to pay for common pothole-related repairs (2026 prices, vary by vehicle and location):

Tyre Replacement

£80 – £200 per tyre, depending on size and brand. Budget tyres are cheaper; premium brands cost more.

Alloy Wheel Repair

£50 – £100 for cosmetic refurbishment. Structural repairs or straightening: £80 – £150.

Alloy Wheel Replacement

£150 – £400+ for a single wheel. OEM wheels for premium vehicles can exceed £500.

Suspension Repair

£150 – £500 depending on components. Shock absorbers: £100–200 per corner. Control arms: £150–300.

These are typical ranges. Your actual costs depend on your vehicle make, model, and local garage rates.

Common Quote Mistakes to Avoid

  • Lump sum quotes: "Repair work: £350" with no breakdown is easy to challenge
  • Handwritten notes: Informal quotes look unprofessional and can be questioned
  • Verbal estimates: Always get it in writing — verbal quotes have no weight
  • Missing vehicle details: The quote must clearly identify your specific vehicle

Frequently Asked Questions

One detailed quote is usually sufficient, but having two quotes from different garages can strengthen your claim. It shows you've sought reasonable prices and protects against councils arguing you've chosen an overpriced option.
You can use either. Councils cannot insist you use the cheapest option — you're entitled to have your vehicle repaired to its pre-accident condition. However, very high main dealer prices may be scrutinised more closely.
That's fine — submit the invoice as your evidence. An invoice is actually better than a quote as it proves the work was done. Keep the old damaged parts if possible as additional evidence.
You can claim with either a quote or an invoice. Getting repairs done first means you pay upfront, but provides stronger evidence. If money is tight, submit a quote and await the outcome.
Councils can question unusually high quotes, but they cannot simply substitute their own preferred repair cost. If your quote is from a reputable garage and itemises the work clearly, it should be accepted.
Quotes and invoices should show VAT separately. You can claim the VAT-inclusive amount. If you're VAT-registered and can reclaim the VAT, you should only claim the net amount.

Related Guides

Documenting Your Vehicle Damage

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How to Photograph Pothole Damage

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What Makes a Valid Pothole Claim?

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