Insurance is bought for protection, whether it is a legal requirement or a personal requirement, and we all hope to never use the policy we have paid for. However, in the unfortunate event of a claim, we thought it might be useful for you to understand the steps which you can take to assist you further.
Information and documentation that may be required when reporting a new claim:
The date the incident occurred, or if unknown, the date of discovery.
Circumstances of the incident, with as much detailed information as possible.
Photographic evidence of the damage if available.
Two alternative estimates for the necessary repairs. Where possible these should be on headed paper including a breakdown of the costs between labour, materials and any equipment used such as scaffolding.
If the claim is for loss of contents, then copies of original receipts and replacement estimates will prove how much you originally paid for those specific items.
The contractors and suppliers comments on the cause of the damage.
Confirmation if you are able to reclaim VAT and, if so, what proportion.
Payment preference. If this was made by BACS transfer, we will require an account name, number and sort code.
Contact details of any third party involved.
When there has been malicious damage/ accidental loss of contents/ theft or attempted theft claims, insurers may also ask for a crime reference number or lost property number (supplied by the police).
Key points to remember
If there has been any damage or incident which may give rise to a claim, this should be reported immediately.
If the claim relates to an escape of water, it is recommended that the failed pipe or component is kept for inspection. (The reason being that it may be necessary to confirm cover or assist in pursuing a recovery).
The Insurers Process
Ecclesiastical Insurance are a specialist insurance company with 130 years of experience offering honest advice, trusted expertise and a caring approach to protection. Ecclesiastical underwrite our dental laboratory policies, and we have found that they are fantastic at offering full support when handling a claim.
When making a claim, the claimant’s solicitor will either ask you for Ecclesiastical’s details or they will send you a Claim Notification Form.
Ecclesiastical will then have one working day to acknowledge receipt.
– If the claim is made by an employee, then Ecclesiastical will have 30 days to decide whether you are liable/responsible.
– If the claim is made by someone who is not an employee, Ecclesiastical will have 40 days to decide whether you are liable/responsible.
Should you have any further questions regarding any of the above, please come and see me at the DTS on Saturday the 19th May where I will be joining the DLA and will be more than happy to help with any enquiries. Alternatively, you can contact me on 01634 662948 or email cstillwell@ukspecialrisks.co.uk.