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What does Beyond Economic Repair (BER) mean?

If a car is declared Beyond Economic Repair (BER), it means the estimated repair costs exceed its market value before the accident. In such cases, the insurer will classify the vehicle as a total loss and provide a settlement instead of covering repairs.

How Does BER Affect My Claim?

If your vehicle is deemed BER:

  • Market value assessment - Your insurer will determine the car’s pre-accident value.

  • Settlement offer - A payout will be offered based on this valuation.

  • Retention of salvage - If you have a comprehensive policy, you may have the option to retain the vehicle (subject to deductions) or transfer ownership to the insurer.

  • Finance agreements - If your car is under a lease or hire purchase, the payout may go directly to the finance provider.

How is BER Determined?

Your car may be deemed BER if:

  • Repair costs exceed the insured value.
  • Repairs cannot restore the car to a safe, roadworthy condition.
  • Parts are unavailable or prohibitively expensive.
  • It is within one year of first registration and damage exceeds 60% of its list price, in which case a replacement may be offered.

What Are My Options After a BER Decision?

  1. Accept the settlement - The insurer will pay the agreed amount, and ownership may transfer to them.

  2. Retain the vehicle - You may keep the damaged car for salvage, which may reduce your payout.

  3. Challenge the valuation - If you believe the settlement is too low, you can provide supporting evidence (such as recent car valuations) to negotiate.

  4. Repair the vehicle - If you choose to repair the car yourself, you may be required to obtain a certificate of roadworthiness from a qualified engineer before insurance cover can be reinstated.

What Else Do I Need to Know?

  • Claims must be reported immediately to 123.ie Claims Team at 01 290 1999.
  • If repairs cost under €1,000, you may proceed without prior approval after submitting two repair estimates.
  • Storage costs up to €200 may be covered if the car is deemed BER.

For further assistance, contact 123.ie Claims Team or visit our Policy Documents page for more details.

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