When Your Car is in Someone Else’s Hands
The moment you hand over your keys to a workshop, your car enters what insurers call “care, custody, and control”.
In simple terms:
The workshop is responsible for safeguarding your car
You still own the car and your insurance policy is still active
This is where things start to overlap.
Then Two Policies at Play
When a fire breaks out in a workshop, there are usually two types of insurance involved:
1. The Workshop’s Insurance
Most reputable workshops carry:
Fire insurance
Public liability insurance
These policies are meant to cover damage caused by incidents like fire, especially if the workshop is found negligent (faulty wiring, unsafe storage of faulty materials).
2. Your Car Insurance
If you have comprehensive car insurance, fire damage is typically covered.
But here’s the catch:
Your insurer may still investigate whether someone else (the workshop) should be responsible for the loss).
Who Actually Pays?
This is where things get a bit heated.
Scenario A: Workshop is Negligent
If investigations show the workshop caused the fire (poor safety practices), the insurer will compensate you.
Scenario B: No Clear Negligence
If the fire is deemed accidental (electrical fault beyond control), your own insurer may pay out under your policy.
Scenario C: Dispute Between Insurers
Sometimes, both insurers may argue over liability.
In this case:
Your insurer may pay you first
Then recover the cost from the workshop’s insurer later (this is called subrogation)
Why This Situation Gets Complicated
This isn’t your typical accidental claim. It’s a liability grey area, and here’s why:
1. Proof of Negligence Matters
You (or your insurer) may need to prove the workshop was at fault, which can take time.
2. Documentation is Key
Without clear records (job sheets, photos, handover details), it becomes harder to establish responsibility.
3. Policy Wording Differences
Not all insurance policies are created equal. Some exclusions or limits may apply depending on your coverage.
What Should You Do Immediately?
If your car is affected in a workshop fire, don’t panic but act fast:
1. Get Official Confirmation
Ask the workshop for:
Incident report
Police report (if available)
2. Notify Your Insurer
Even if you believe the workshop is at fault, inform your insurer immediately.
3. Gather Evidence
Photos, repair records, and communication logs can strengthen your claim.
4. Don’t Assume Responsibility
Avoid agreeing to anything (or signing documents) until liability is clear.
A Smarter Way to Think About Risk
Most car owners worry about accidents on the road, but not off it.
Yet situations like workshop fires highlight an important truth: Risk doesn’t stop when you park your car. It just changes hands.
Choosing a reputable workshop with proper insurance coverage isn’t just about quality, it’s about protection.
A workshop fire is rare, but when it happens, it can turn into a stressful back-and-forth between insurers.
The good news?
If you’re properly insured and act quickly, you’re not left stranded.
The key is understanding that:
Responsibility depends on fault
Compensation depends in coverage
Resolution depends on documentation
When things go up in flames, clarity is what keeps your claim from burning out.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will my insurance cover fire damage at a workshop?
Yes, if you have comprehensive coverage. Fire is usually included, even if the incident happens off-road.
2. Can I claim directly from the workshop?
Yes, especially if they are negligent. However, claims are typically handled through their insurer.
3. What if both insurers deny responsibility?
You can escalate the case or let your insurer handle recovery through subrogation.
4. Will I lose my NCD if I claim?
It depends. If your insurer pays first, your NCD may be affected, unless they successfully recover the claim.
5. Should I still inform my insurer if it’s clearly the workshop’s fault?
Yes. Always notify your insurer early, they can guide you and protect your claim rights.
