Fleet insurance policies ‘refreshed’ to cut repair times

Allianz Commercial has refreshed its fleet policies to reduce repair times, with ‘green’ parts to be automatically fitted when appropriate.

Against a backdrop of double-digit claims inflation, the insurer says that these new terms aim to deliver swifter, sustainable repairs for customers.

The refreshed fleet policies will provide an incentive to customers who use Allianz’s Approved Repairer Network (ARN) in the form of an excess reduction.

Under new wordings to policies effective from March 1, green parts will be fitted for non-safety-critical repairs where an appropriate part is available.

Previously, explicit permission had to be sought for each repair, so the new rule will help speed up the claim process, says Allianz.

A green part is an undamaged component that has been salvaged from another vehicle.

Allianz’s suppliers use only parts whose conformity has been certified. They come from the same manufacturer, with the original guarantee, and are the same age or newer than the parts they replace.

Allianz will guarantee the repairs made in its Approved Repairer Network, with or without green parts, for as long as the vehicle remains in its customer’s ownership.

Together with the excess reduction, the warranty aims to encourage customers to have their motor repairs done in one of the 300-plus approved garages of its UK network.

This applies to the Motor Fleet and Small Fleet policies from March 1, with Complete Mini Fleet following soon afterwards.

Allianz says that the repair times, costs and quality are better controlled inside the ARN than outside.

Head of claims customer delivery, Eibhlin Swan, said: “The costs of motor claims have been rocketing in the market and we want to support our customers to keep their claims costs under control.

“For us, the solution is to work closely with our repairers. The incentive and the warranty we provide for ARN repairs show the trust we place in our partners’ skills.”

Head of commercial motor, Gerry Ross, added: “Using more green parts in the repair process is the right thing to do. It’s good for our customers as it will reduce their claims costs and repair times. It’s also good for the environment as it reduces waste and carbon emissions.”