New claims preparation service working on your behalf

When disaster strikes, submitting an insurance claim is a critical step that can determine how swiftly and successfully a business recovers. However, preparing a claim can be no simple task. For larger, more complex losses, it often becomes a technical and demanding process, requiring precise loss calculations, interpretation of policy terms and other complicated considerations. 

Specialist support for Business Interruption claims

For policyholders with Business Interruption claims, our new Claims Preparation Solutions (CPS) team provides specialist claims services designed to settle a claim effectively and efficiently. The team includes the expertise of a chartered accountant, offering a significant advantage when handling complex financial calculations.

As highly experienced claims professionals, the CPS team works with you to quantify, organise and substantiate a claim. In some cases, this may involve investigating and documenting losses with written evidence and photos. Once organised, we ensure the claim is presented to the insurer in a complete and persuasive way that aligns with insurance policy requirements. 

“A well-prepared claim tells a clear, credible story. It’s your one real shot at showing the insurer the full impact of your loss,” says Rochelle Dobbin, Manager of the CPS team. “If the claim is not well presented with incomplete documentation or unclear explanations, you risk delays or even having your claim turned down.”

“From the moment a loss occurs, we act on your behalf, allowing your team to focus on recovery and rebuilding. We simplify what is often a complex and time-consuming claims process, particularly when it comes to business interruption. Our goal is to ensure your claim is thoroughly reviewed, carefully documented, and expertly presented to achieve the best possible outcome.”

The value of CPS was highlighted recently when a fire damaged a client’s vital machinery. As the machinery was initially deemed irreparable, the client flew to the United States of America to quickly secure a $430,000 replacement. However, new advice then suggested a $180,000 repair was possible.

As a result, the insurer offered coverage for repair costs only. Hours later, our CPS team stepped in and leveraged their financial expertise to present a compelling business case to the insurer. Fast forward a few more hours and our CPS had secured insurer approval and a $330,000 progress payment.

This swift action enabled the client to purchase the replacement machine within the required timeframe, minimising operational disruption. This example underscores the importance of expert claims preparation in navigating complex insurance scenarios and achieving optimal outcomes.

Navigating the fine print on your behalf

As well as guiding you through the process and advocating your interests with the insurer, our CPS team works with insurers to ensure every aspect of your policy is considered. 

“As claims specialists, we use our expertise to ensure your policy is interpreted to your full advantage, especially in those often-missed grey areas. The finer policy details can make a big difference to your claim outcome,” says Rochelle. 

Some policies cover claims support

Many Business Interruption policies cover both the direct loss and the costs involved in handling that loss, including the preparation of your claim. This means you may be able to benefit from expert claims assistance without paying an additional fee.

Proactive support before a loss occurs

Our CPS team also works with clients before a loss to identify potential Business Interruption exposures and calculate declared values and appropriate policy limits so your Gallagher broker can tailor coverage accordingly. That means you’re not paying for unnecessary cover – and you’re not underinsured when it matters most.