My son's car was hit and the insurer wants to write it off - can he insist on it being repaired?

While stationary, the door of my son's 15 yr old Vauxhall Zafira was hit by another driver trying to manoeuvre. The insurance want to write it off, but it's a reliable car and he has a young family who need transport. He can't replace it for the insurance value. Can he insist on the car being repaired? Are there any other options?

Asked on 9 January 2018 by Kivox

Answered by Honest John
You should be able to replace the vehicle for the market value placed, if you cannot, dispute the market value. If the repair cost are less than the market value, you can insist on it being repaired. Alternatively ask for a cash in lieu settlement at the cost of repair up to the market value.
Similar questions
Someone drove into the back of my car and admitted liability. Can I refuse to let my insurer write off my car?
My son bought a used SEAT Leon FR from a friend two weeks ago for £2000. It was in excellent condition with a full service history. On Thursday, two young lads on pizza delivery mopeds came to his place...
My car was reversed into in November last year, it was assessed as Cat D and the other driver admitted responsibility. I accepted an interim payment of £4995 minus £1300 as I decided to keep the car and...