What to expect when lodging an “Internal Dispute Resolution Form”?

MTA NSW has received copies of numerous disputes via IDR Forms and is often asked by Repairers; “What’s next?”

If you have an issue with an Insurer that is supported by the Code:
1) Download an IDR Form (above)
2) Complete and submit the IDR Form to the insurer and send a copy to the MTA (fax 9212 6889)
3) The insurer must give acknowledgement and take action (see Clauses 11.2 and 10 below) within either 2 or 5 days (depending on the nature of the dispute).
4) If you are unsure of any part of this process, contact Greg Preston or Sophie Luttrell at MTA on 9213 4222.

The MVIRI Code of Conduct states:

11.2 Internal Dispute Resolution “IDR’s”
Insurers will provide to the Repairer a written acknowledgement of the complaint within five (5) business days. Within a further ten (10) business days, Repairers and Insurers will conclude the IDR process, unless otherwise agreed to by both parties.

10. Repair Dispute Resolution “RDR”s
10.3 Dispute Resolution Procedure
(a) Upon notification of a dispute, the Insurer will fully investigate the issue, and the supporting evidence provided by the Repairer and will within two (2) business days make a determination.

10.1 Matters for dispute resolution
(a) Where disputes arise relating to the appropriate repair and paint method and where it is believed the safety, structural integrity, presentation or utility of the vehicle will be compromised by the proposed repair method, and the dispute cannot be resolved under clauses 1 and 7, the provisions of clause 10 apply.

(d) Clause 11 will not apply to disputes covered by sub-clauses 10.1(a)
Repairers requiring important information regarding manufacturer’s specifications should seek this information directly from the manufacturer.

You can download the Code from www.abrcode.com.au.

Manufacturers’ Specifications and the Body Repair Industry
The Motor Vehicle Insurance and Repair Industry (MVIRI) Code of Conduct states:

“Insurers and Repairers agree they have a responsibility to ensure vehicle repairs are authorised and carried out in a professional manner and to ensure that the safety, structural integrity, presentation and utility of the vehicle are restored.”

Holden launches technical repair information service online
For more information and to register go to www.gmtechinfo.com or www.acdelcotds.com for more details.

Repairable Write Offs
MTA NSW has received information regarding a new Insurance practice of “buying back” poorly repaired vehicles and total lossing them rather than having them rectified to Industry standards and manufacturer specifications.

Will this vehicle then be resold at auction as a “RWO” only for it to end up back on our roads for the next unsuspecting victim to fall prey to this practice?

MTA NSW is committed to working with the NSW Government and the Stay Safe Committee to ensure that the general public is protected from these practices.

If you have any knowledge of any poorly repaired vehicles, please advise Greg Preston or Sophie Luttrell at MTA on 9213 4222.

Collision Inspection Centre for the General Public
Visit www.ivic.com.au to find out more.
flyer: download

I-CAR - Body Repair Training & Information Source
I-Car is also an Industry leader on determining repair methodology.
For more information please visit www.i-car.com.au

Realistic Times and Rates – Prestige Times
MTA NSW inform the Body Repair Industry of progress on the introduction of a trial on Prestige realistic times, commencing from Monday 7th September 2009. The selected Repairers are amongst the Industry leaders in their respective manufacturer’s accredited fields and will ensure that all necessary manufacturer based information will be utilised in the repair process.

Environmental Update and Information

VOC Emissions
MTA NSW has recently received information regarding VOC gases. The latest information from Canada is that they are moving to a requirement to reduce VOC emissions by up to 40%.

MTA NSW has been advised that the DECC is also looking at reducing “Ground Level” VOC emissions are also likely to introduce restrictions.

With this in mind, MTA NSW has been able to secure a 10% discount on behalf of the Body Repair Industry for the EATI Gas Filtration System if ordered before December 2009. Please contact Greg Preston at MTA to submit an order enquiry – greg.preston@mtansw.com.au. EATI systems remove VOC gases from spray booth emissions.

For more information visit Inquiries@eati.com.au or contact this office.

“Volatile Organic Compounds” Gas Filtration System
The affordable solution to reduce VOC emissions in the Body Repair & Spray Painting Industry.

MTA NSW now offering “Green Stamp Environmental Accreditation!”
If you would like to be rewarded for your environmental practices and promote your business as “Green Stamped”, you earn Green Stamp Accreditation. Go to www.greenstamp.mtansw.com.au for more details or contact Sophie Luttrell at MTA on 9213 4231. Accreditation is available to both Members and non-members and is a great way of promoting your business to your customers.

Receiving the Industry News Service
To ensure delivery of this and other important Industry Information to your Inbox, please email sophie.luttrell@mtansw.com.au

Regards

Greg Preston
Senior Manager
Divisional Services
Motor Traders’ Association of NSW
Phone:   02 9213 4218
Fax:       02 9212 6889 
Mobile:   0423 418 538
Email:    greg.preston@mtansw.com.au