Our in-house Claims Team recently managed to negotiate a successful settlement for a farming client who was experiencing difficulties with their insurer following the destruction of their shelter pen due to severe weather conditions.
When Storm Isha struck the country in January this year, severe financial and capital loss affected various industries and sectors. Unfortunately, one of our farm clients fell victim too and faced the destruction of their shelter pen, for which the estimated replacement cost was over £16,000. As a result, the client sought compensation under their insurance policy.
The response the client received was not one they were expecting, with the client’s insurer initially turning down their claim. Despite the pen being securely anchored to the ground by four ground pegs in every corner, along with additional posts and rope tie-down points for maximum stability, it had been categorised as ‘moveable’ property. According to the terms of the client’s insurance policy, this meant that the shelter pen was excluded from storm damage cover.
After a detailed investigation of the policy details and the circumstances surrounding the shelter pen’s construction, our Claims Team discovered that despite the exclusion specified in the policy, the intention of the underwriters had been to provide storm and flood peril cover for the pens. In a bid to support our client to the best of our ability, our team used this evidence to challenge the insurer’s decision.
Following a series of discussions and negotiations, our Claims Team successfully encouraged the insurer to reassess their decision. They then agreed to provide full compensation meaning our client received an almost full settlement, which enabled them to replace their broken shelter pen without financial burden.
We appreciate insurance can be complex, that is why we believe thorough documentation and proper client representation is crucial. Our in-house Claims Team understands the need for both us and our clients to be aware of every aspect of their insurance cover, what it entails, and how it might be translated in special circumstances.
Peace of mind during turbulent times is invaluable, which is exactly why at McClarrons, we understand the significance of having robust claims management services available. Our in-house Claims Team will not only manage settlement negotiations for our clients but will provide them with steps to take in the immediate aftermath to ensure they receive the support they need when facing unexpected challenges. You can learn more about our Claims Team here and what McClarrons do and how we can help here.
