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Hello everyone,
I’m facing a bit of a predicament and could use some advice regarding a car accident that happened while my vehicle was parked. The incident involves my neighbor, who also happens to be my landlord. Here’s what happened:
A few days ago, my parked car was accidentally hit by my neighbor. The impact caused damage to the front bumper and some scratches on the front light. After the incident, we discussed the matter, and he asked me to get a repair quote and let him know the cost.
Initially, I went to a body shop, and they quoted me £375 for the repair, which my neighbor agreed to cover. However, in an attempt to ensure I had all the information, I decided to get a second opinion and went to another body shop. To my surprise, they informed me that the entire bumper needs to be replaced, the front light needs polish, and the overall cost would be significantly higher than the initial quote.
Here’s where my dilemma lies: I’m feeling quite embarrassed to tell my neighbor about the higher repair cost, especially since he had already agreed to cover the initial quote. I’m worried that this situation might cause tension in our landlord-tenant relationship, and I want to avoid any uncomfortable situations.
Given that the accident occurred while my car was parked, my question is, what could be the implications if I only repair the bumper and the front light instead of replacing them as suggested by the second body shop? Could this decision come back to haunt me when I eventually return the car after the lease ends (in 3 years)? Will there be any penalties or potential issues with the car’s condition at the end of the lease?
I would greatly appreciate any advice or insights from those with experience or knowledge in such matters. I want to handle this situation responsibly and maintain a good relationship with my neighbor/landlord. Thank you in advance for your help!
- Replies
Can you post a photo of the damage
it’s normal to get three quotes for anything in life so get three quotes and present these to your landlord and explain the good condition bonus and see where the conversion goes
Also, the GCB varies, it is usually a lot more than present. But do get 3 written quotes from reputable garages.
Your landlord will have to make good on the accident.
It might be benificial gertting a 3rd quote from another bodyshop, as it could be the case the second quote you got, you were being ripped off.
If the bumper is only scratched, it can be sanded and repainted without the need for a new bumper. As with the light, minor scratches can be polished out.
As others have said, a picture of the damage would be benificial.
WOW you really are in a predicament.
Your concerns regarding the GCB are legitimate.
Your desire to stay on good terms with your neighbour + landlord are also legitimate.
With 2 or even 3 quotes your neighbour will of course want to pay the cheapest one.
If it was me i would explain to my neighbour that for the 3rd quote you will take the car to the Motability dealer where i got the car from and go with whatever price they quote sighting your concerns about the possibility of losing some/all of your GCB to your neighbour.
The remaining option will be to put the entire situation in the hands of the insurance companies which kinda removes you from any potential awkward situation with your neighbour/landlord.
Good Luck, i hope it all works out well.
Thank you for your thoughtful advice! I really appreciate your understanding and the suggestions you provided.
The damage is minor and easily repairable. Infact if the bottom trim was clipped back in Motability would class it as fair wear and tear.
£350 sounds average and a fair price imo 🙂
Motability wouldn’t penalise you for handing car back with that damage it would be classed as fair wear after 3 years.
Motability wouldn’t penalise you for handing car back with that damage it would be classed as fair wear after 3 years.
Indeed, but I wasn’t refering to handing it back early lol
One answer to consider
The car is not yours. You have an obligation to notify motability that your vehicle has been involved in an accident.
Let the insurers deal with it and it takes away your responsibility to deal with your landlord.
Sorry Kezo wasn’t replying to you was just addressing main article i probably need to be a bit clearer on replies i suppose ?
Sorry Kezo wasn’t replying to you was just addressing main article i probably need to be a bit clearer on replies i suppose
No problem 🙂
@Siavash7373 Save yourself a lot of hassle and do as you should. That is report the accident to RSAM and let them deal with it. All legal and above board.
Inform your landlord that you are required to do so under motability contract.
Always cover your own back in such situations.
Joss
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