Insurance Repair in Canada: Honda Dealership Authorized/Certified Body Shop vs. Others? What to Watch For?

Hey everyone, I'm dealing with a major insurance claim on my Honda Accord in Ontario,Canada after a tree fell on it, and I could really use some community wisdom.

The damage is extensive: the roof is crushed, all glass is smashed, and there's damage to the body all around, with potential issues in the engine bay (hood is damaged, engine status unknown).

My insurance claim is not approved yet but almost on a way, and now I'm facing the decision of where to get it repaired. My local Honda dealership recommended a Honda "Certified/authorized" collision center (I don't exactly remembered word they told me on call) since they don't have their own body shop.

This leads to my main dilemma: Is my car even repairable, or is this a guaranteed write-off? And if it is repaired, I have several questions:

1. The "Honda Certified" vs. Independent Debate:
   • Is it normal for Honda dealerships in Canada to not have their own body shops? Is the "certified partner" model the standard?
   • For a repair this severe, is the Honda certification worth potential extra cost or hassle? Does it genuinely guarantee better fit, finish, and long-term resale value compared to a highly-rated independent shop?
2. Warranty & Future Responsibility (My Biggest Fear):
   • My car's original factory warranty is expired. If the certified shop does the repair and a year later a part fails or the paint peels, who is my one point of contact?
   • Is it 100% the body shop's responsibility, or can I go to a Honda dealership for warranty claims on the any parts or workmanship if anything happens in future? I need to know exactly who to call to avoid being stuck in the middle.
3. Navigating the Insurance "Cost Trap":
   • If the Honda Certified shop's quote is higher than the insurance company's estimate, will I be stuck paying the difference out-of-pocket? How do I successfully argue against this with my insurer in Ontario?
4. What to Get in Writing:
   • If I proceed with the Honda-authorized shop, what are the top 3 things I must get in writing before they start? (e.g., a guarantee on the use of 100% new Genuine Honda Parts, a detailed workmanship warranty document, etc.)
5. Any Pro-Tips?
   • What are the lessons you've learned from a similar situation in Canada? What would you have done differently?

My goal is the highest quality, safest repair without falling into a financial trap. ANy suggestion,comments would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance for any guidance it's greatly appreciated!