Making an Insurance Claim

2. Making a Claim

For your claim to be accepted and paid in full, you must follow certain procedures.

2.1 Check your policy to make sure you are covered for the specific loss suffered.

• For example, you may not be able to claim for a computer theft if the thief could simply walk into your office. Your policy may only cover burglary, which requires forced entry to the premises.

2.2 Assess your loss to make sure you are claiming for the full costs of repairs, replacements or financial losses. Once your insurer has settled the claim, you will not be able to go back to ask for more.

• If you cannot put a value on your claim, ask your insurer, broker or a professional loss assessor for advice. Many insurers provide 24-hour helplines.
• Keep the receipts for any incidental costs, such as additional cleaning following a flood or the cost of equipment rental following a fire. You may be able to add these costs to your claim.

2.3 Find out as much as you can about the circumstances surrounding the claim.

• Your insurer will want to know how, when and where the loss occurred. For example, if you were taking your day's takings to the bank and were mugged, you should give details of the time, place, which police station was notified, the crime number, and witness contact details.

2.4 Provide your insurer with all the specific information that is requested.

Your insurer or insurance broker will usually send you a claim form.

• Ask them or your loss assessor for advice on filling out the form. Your claim may be delayed or rejected if you give incorrect or insufficient information.