Insurance claims

The purpose of insurance is of course, to provide protection in the event of a possible claim.
Whilst we sincerely hope that our clients do not suffer such misfortune, inevitably claims do occur.

Whilst the decision of whether a claim is valid or not and how much will be paid is down to your insurance company, we understand that the claims process can be distressing and confusing and we are always here to help.

If you are unfortunate enough to suffer an incident that could lead to a claim under your insurance arranged through us there a number steps you should follow:

• Keep your head and don’t panic

• Let us know

All insurance policies contain a condition which requires the insured to notify immediately any claim or, in some cases, any occurrence which might give rise to a claim. We request that you let us know as soon as reasonably possible in order that we may take steps to notify your insurers, advise you what course of action to take and fully protect your interests.
If the incident is of a serious matter occurring outside business hours many insurers offer emergency helplines and these are contained within your policy documentation. Make a note of these when you first receive your insurance documents as you never know when they will be of assistance. Click here to see a list of some of these number that may be help.

• Never Admit Liability

If the claim involves a third party make sure you have their full details including details of their own insurance covers. If possible, take photographs or take details of any independent witnesses that will support your claim.
If you receive any correspondence accusing you of any wrong doing, acknowledge its receipt without prejudice and forward this to us.

• Take any reasonable steps you can to contain or minimise the loss

It is your responsibility to make sure that the claim is not made worse by not taking adequate steps to mitigate the loss. Make sure you keep a record of any expenditure and inform the relevant authorities.
If the claim involves an accident involving an employee, make sure the Accident Book is completed. If the claim involves a theft, make sure you have reported the matter to the police.

Remember, in most instances, Insurers have a pro-active management system for claims and will generally deal with you either directly or via a Loss Adjuster.

Lovat Insurance Brokers Limited is part of the Bestinvest Group and authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA). Lovat Insurance Brokers Limited's FSA Company reference number is 305302 and this may be verified by checking the register on the FSA website http://www.fsa.gov.uk/register/home.do or by contacting the FSA on 0845 606 1234. The FSA are an independent body that regulates General Insurance, Mortgages and the Financial Services Industry. Copyright Lovat Insurance Brokers Limited 2009 - All Rights Reserved