Safety first, and the emergency services before anyone else, if there is any risk to people. Nothing below takes priority over that.
Immediate steps
- 01Prevent further damage where it is safe to do so, so isolate water or power, make the building secure, move stock clear.
- 02Do not dispose of damaged property until the insurer or loss adjuster has confirmed it is no longer needed.
- 03Photograph the scene widely before anything is moved, then in detail.
- 04Report theft, malicious damage or loss to the police and keep the reference number.
- 05Keep receipts for any emergency work; policies often deal with these differently from the main claim.
Notification
Most policies require notification as soon as reasonably practicable, and some set a specific period. Notify even where you are unsure the claim will proceed, because a notification can be withdrawn, but late notification cannot be undone.
Where we placed the policy, tell us at the same time. We will confirm the insurer's notification route and what they will ask for.
What happens next
The insurer decides whether to appoint a loss adjuster, and the claim is handled under the terms of your policy. We can help you present the claim and follow it up, but the decision on cover and settlement rests with the insurer. We cannot guarantee any particular outcome or timescale.
General information published by Aldergate. It is not advice, does not take account of your circumstances, and does not alter the terms of any policy. Your own wording, schedule and endorsements govern.