"Please feel free to share any horror stories or amusing anecdotes about claims!" Just click here to submit

No one wants to claim, but when it happens you want to be back in business with the least possible disruption and at minimum final cost. This is where the quality of your insurance and your Intermediary are put to their greatest test

SO WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP YOURSELF?

· Time is of the essence. Don't just say (like so many do) "Oh well - we are insured". Things can and do go wrong with insurance, see useful tips. You must make sure you have done everything possible to minimise your loss - it is a policy condition!

· Are you sure your policies cover the loss? Policies are becoming easier to read and your Intermediary may have given you an explanatory schedule or Register. Any doubt - just ask.

· Your policy will require you to report the potential claim as soon as possible. Your Insurer may have a 24-hour help line - use it - but also contact your Intermediary. You may need his help and Insurance Companies are famous for not keeping either the Client or Intermediary informed.

· Find all supporting documents e.g Invoices, Accounts, Employment Records. You will need them and this is a major area where delays and resultant complaints do occur.

· Loss Adjusters may be instructed by your Insurer. Their purpose is to expedite the claim to a conclusion which is acceptable to both parties. Unfortunately, they are treated with suspicion as they are paid by the Insurance Company, but co-operate with them. If you don't agree with them say so, but be prepared to back-up your argument with valid argument and documentation. Tell your Intermediary what is going on - you need his help - he may even be willing to come along with the Loss Adjuster to answer any queries which may arise.

· Loss Assessors are particularly useful if you have a large or complicated claim. They work for you with payment usually based on a percentage of the claim. They employ highly skilled and professionally qualified staff to calculate your losses and negotiate with the insurers on your behalf. Some Insurance Companies like to think that their services are unnecessary, but experience dictates otherwise.

· Don't allow your Insurance Company to drag its heels. Keep an active watch on the progress of your claim and make sure your Intermediary does likewise. A frequent excuse for delay is "pressure of work" - not acceptable! If your Insurer has too much work on they should employ more staff or change their working practices. That is a management problem which has no right to delay the settlement of your claim and perhaps even put your business at risk!

REMEMBER -(see useful tips ) - You are in charge - make sure you keep it that way.

If you would like to share any horror stories or amusing anecdotes about claims contact us.

This site only applies to insurance governed by U.K laws and regulations.
© specialperils Ltd. 2005