FOCWA is a Dutch trade association for damage repair businesses, also known as body shops (carrosseriebedrijven or schadeherstellers). Most members repair damage to cars; some also build bodywork or trailers. Member companies must meet FOCWA's quality requirements, such as repairing to the manufacturer's specifications.
Why it matters when buying or selling
- Buyer: if a used car has had damage, ask who did the repair and ask for the invoice. A repair by a recognised body shop says something about its quality. If in doubt, book a pre-purchase inspection; an inspector looks for previously repaired damage, among other things.
- Seller: keep repair invoices and be honest about earlier damage in your listing and in the sale contract. Hiding known damage can cost you dearly later.
- Comparing businesses: on Sell Your Car, the dealer profile shows whether a business is affiliated with FOCWA. If in doubt, check membership with the association itself.