Cockatoo guide

Garage liability: separate workshop risks and custody

Garage liability is a label often encountered in motor-trade insurance discussions. It does not specify one universal package for Australian workshops; customer vehicles, repair work, public liability and motor use may sit in different sections.

Garage liability is a label often encountered in motor-trade insurance discussions. It does not specify one universal package for Australian workshops; customer vehicles, repair work, public liability and motor use may sit in different sections.

The distinction that matters

A policy for the workshop building does not establish cover for a customer’s car, a test drive or a completed repair. State the activities and ownership of the property involved.

What to check

  • Customer vehicle custody limits.
  • Road testing and permitted drivers.
  • Completed-work and supplied-part allegations.
  • Mobile work and workshop property.

Example to discuss

Ask how a vehicle damaged during a test drive differs from damage caused by an alleged repair error after handover. The relevant policy sections may differ.

This is a hypothetical comparison, not a customer claim or a determination of cover.

Sources and further reading

General information only. The policy, schedule and applicable rules determine the actual position. For a personal decision, use an appropriately qualified adviser or the relevant provider.

Sources

References used in this guide