NRMA - Repairers

Following news out in the SMH.

The NRMA says customers who wish to select a specific repairer can now do so free of charge, following widespread criticism of its controversial web-based repairs system.

Under the current system, introduced in July last year, customers are forced to bring their cars to a centre for assessment to allow preferred repairers to bid for work by examining online photos of the damage.

Customers wanting to choose their own repairer must pay a higher premium than those who take out a standard insurance policy.

But the smash repair industry has been lobbying the NSW government to move against NRMA and its parent company Insurance Australia Group.

NRMA Insurance CEO David Issa said the company would allow customers to select their own repairers free of charge.

"We are a customer-focused company and if this change addresses customer concerns around Choice of Repairer it is a worthwhile endeavour," Mr Issa said in a statement.

He said the company expected the change to come into effect from May 1.

But the NRMA otherwise remained committed to its Care and Repair Service system, Mr Issa said.

"We will continue to recommend our preferred repairer network as it's made up of quality repairers who continue to meet our high expectations regarding workmanship and customer service," he said.

The NSW government yesterday declined to say whether it would support a bill by Independent MP Richard Torbay that would impose jail sentences and penalties of up to $165,000 on all NSW insurers who use preferred repairers or parts.