Loss Adjuster Insurance
Compare Loss Adjuster Insurance Quotes
- Investigates and assesses complex insurance claims for fairness
- Ensures payouts match policy terms and actual loss value
- Fast & simple – fill out one easy form
- Compare quotes – save time and money
Search, Compare and Save on Loss Adjuster Insurance
Enter your details
It takes only 2 minutes to complete the quotation form
Compare your quotes
Let the specialists compare policies for you over the phone
Start saving
Choose and buy the insurance policy that suits your needs
QuoteRadar.co.uk
is dedicated to helping you find an affordable Loss Adjuster Insurance deal with no hassle
What Is Loss Adjuster Insurance
Loss adjuster insurance is not a type of insurance policy you buy, but rather a service provided by professionals called loss adjusters or claims adjusters. Insurance companies appoint these experts to investigate, assess, and validate insurance claims, especially for high-value or complex losses. Their role is to:
- Investigate the reason and depth of the damage or loss incurred
- Verify whether the claim falls within the terms of the insurance policy
- Calculate the appropriate payout amount based on their assessment
- Report their findings to the insurer to support the claims decision
Who Is An Insurance Loss Adjuster?
Registered by the FCA, loss adjuster is a specialist who is employed by an insurance company to independently evaluate and investigate insurance claims. To fulfil this responsibility, they physically go to visit sites, gather any information, and offer in-depth reports, aiming to manage the said claim within the insurance policy terms provided to the client.
If you are wondering, do insurance companies always send a claim adjuster? Well, they are impartial and hired to resolve large, complex, and high-cost claims only. They work for the insurer or the hiring company, making sure claims are valid and are part of a company’s cover limits. According to the Chartered Institute of Loss Adjusters (CILA), their primary responsibilities include:
- Assess the nature and extent of damage
- Identify the cause of the damage and investigate it if it falls under the coverage
- To find out about the actual costs incurred and the process to get the Policy Holder back on their feet.
Although the stakeholders expect them to act impartially, their main duty is to ensure that the insurer only pays out what is necessary and within the policy’s terms. They are typically involved in high-value, complex, or disputed claims that require detailed investigation.
Businesses That Need To Understand Insurance Claim Adjusters In UK
The insurance has great relevance for:
- Homeowners: Especially those with high-value homes or complex insurance policies.
- Businesses: Commercial property owners, SMEs, and large enterprises facing business interruption or property damage.
- Landlords: Those managing residential or commercial portfolios, where claims may involve tenant disputes or significant property damage.
Understanding the claims adjuster’s role is essential if you want to ensure your claim is handled fairly and efficiently.
Why Do I Need Claim Adjusters? Cost?
The handling of large and complex insurance claims is relatively hard in the UK. Claim adjuster insurance is an essential resource for insurers managing claims as they ensure to deal with claims fairly, efficiently. Before we move towards the types of claim adjusters, below are some scenarios where hiring a claim adjuster can be beneficial:
- High-Volume Claims
After large-scale disasters such as floods, storms, or fires, insurers often face a rise in claims received. Adjusters help manage this influx by assessing each case fairly and ensuring to process all claims are processed fairly and on time. - Complex or High-Value Claims
Some claims get so complex that they require in-depth technical knowledge, such as those involving major structural damage, business interruptions, or high-value assets. Claims adjusters, utilising their expertise, accurately assess these cases and recommend appropriate settlement amounts, reducing the risk of disputes.
Types Of Claim Adjusters
The UK insurance market has a variety of claim adjusters, each specialising in different claim types and complexities. The following are the main types.
In-House Claim Adjusters
Employed directly by insurance companies, in-house adjusters handle claims from start to finish and ensure a consistent and efficient claims experience. These adjusters have the following qualities:
- Fast response times (often within 24 hours).
- Direct authority to settle and pay claims.
- Seamless communication with brokers and customers.
- Use of technology for quick evidence collection and settlement.
They deal directly with the policyholders who seek a streamlined and efficient claims process with direct involvement of the insurer.
Field-Based Loss Adjuster
Field-based deal with claims that require a site visit, particularly for higher-value or more complex claims, typically above £10,000. They are good to work with:
- On-site assessments and face-to-face customer interaction.
- Immediate decisions on policy liability and reinstatement.
- Rapid development of action plans and interim payments.
These insurance adjusters deal best with claims involving significant property damage, business interruption, or complex circumstances requiring in-person evaluation.
Major Loss and Construction Claim Adjusters
These are experts in handling the largest and most complex claims, often exceeding £100,000. This includes major commercial incidents, construction, and infrastructure losses. Major loss and construction have certain qualities such as:
- Catering to the strategic management of high-value, multi-faceted claims
- Coordination with multiple stakeholders (engineers, surveyors, legal teams)
- Protection of customers’ financial and reputational interests
They are best suited to deal with claims that involve large businesses, construction projects, or catastrophic losses where expertise and project management are crucial.
Third-Party Claim Adjusters
Third party claim adjusters are Independent firms with whom insurers or brokers sign a contract to help with providing additional capacity or specialist knowledge, especially during surge events, e.g., major storms or floods.
These adjusters are important to provide:
- Flexible support for insurers during busy periods
- Access to niche expertise for unusual or complex claims
- Often work alongside in-house teams to ensure full coverage
They are best for situations where insurers need extra resources or specialist input beyond their in-house teams.
Specialist Claim Adjusters
These claims adjusters have expertise in niche areas such as liability, engineering, marine, agriculture, fine art, or cyber claims. They are of great importance to provide:
- Deep sector-specific knowledge
- Ability to handle unique or technically complex claims
- Essential for industries with specialised insurance needs
They are best suited to deal with businesses or individuals with claims involving specialist assets, industries, or risks.
Selecting the right type of insurance adjuster is crucial for a smooth, fair, and timely claims process. Whether you’re dealing with a straightforward property claim or a major commercial loss, the UK insurance market offers a range of loss adjusting services tailored to your needs.
Loss Adjuster vs Loss Assessor
A layman often fails to understand the basic difference between an Insurance Loss Adjuster and a Loss Assessor. Here is the basic comparison that can help you understand the role of each in case you need to deal with them.
| Aspect | Loss Adjuster | Loss Assessor |
|---|---|---|
| Who they represent | The insurance company | The policyholder |
| Who appoints them | The Insurer | The Policyholder |
| Main Role | Investigate the claim, assess damage, and recommend a settlement to insurer | Prepare, present, and negotiate the claim on behalf of the policyholder |
| Objective | Protect the insurer’s interests and minimise their liability | Protect the policyholder’s interests and maximise their entitlement |
| Fee paid by | Insurance company | The policyholder |
| Approach | May look for reasons to reduce or reject claims | Works to ensure the claim is paid in full and fairly |
| Typical Involvement | Automatically involved in the most significant claims | Usually appointed by the policyholder if a claim is large, complex, or disputed |
While loss adjusters work directly for the insurance company, loss assessors are members of The Institute of Public Loss Assessors who help in raising settlement offers by 20-30%. (
It must be now apparent that a Loss Adjuster works for the insurer and generates in-depth reports for their insurer, while a Loss Assessor negotiates settlements, ensuring that fair treatment is provided to the policyholder. Both of these roles carry different priorities and loyalties, but both play a vital role in fair claim settlement
What Services In the UK?
Insurance Adjusters Provide
Assessment and Adjustment Of Claims
Quantification and Valuation of Loss
Advising on Repairs and Next Steps
Verification Of Policy Coverage
Reporting and Recommendations
Liaison and Communication
Specialist and Major Loss Handling
Common Types of Claims Handled by Claim Adjusters in the UK
Below are the most common types of claims that they typically handle.
Property Damage Claims
Property damage is one of the most frequent and common claims for which insurance is provided. This includes damage to residential or commercial buildings caused by events such as:
- Fires
- Floods and water escapes (e.g., burst pipes)
- Storms and severe weather events
- Subsidence and structural damage
- Vandalism or theft-related damage
Example: Fire Damage to a Commercial Property
A large thatched property suffered lethal fire damage, which destroyed stock, fixtures, and fittings, and caused the temporary closure of the business. The business hired claim adjusters from an insurance company to investigate the extent of the damage, verifying policy conditions, and negotiating a claim for loss of gross profit during the business interruption period. The evaluation provided will allow the business to recover and reopen.
Business Interruption Claims
For commercial policyholders, insurance involves managing business interruption claims. These claims refer to financial losses suffered due to the inability to work normally following an insured event like fire or flood. Insurance adjuster assess the impact on business income, calculate lost profits, and evaluate additional expenses incurred during the low time.
Example: Loss of Income Due to Fire
Following the fire, insurance adjusters not only investigated the physical damage but also calculated the financial losses incurred during the closure period of the business. This involved a detailed analysis of lost profits and ongoing expenses to ensure the business received appropriate compensation for the interruption.
Liability Claims
Claim agents also handle liability claims where a policyholder is suspected to be responsible for injury or damage to third parties. This can include public, employers’, or product liability claims. Claims adjuster insurance entails the investigation of the circumstances, assessing the insurer’s liability, and recommending appropriate settlements.
Example: Public or Employer’s Liability
The insurance company sends insurance adjusters to investigate claims where a business is alleged to be responsible for injury or damage to third parties, such as a customer slipping on a wet floor or an employee injured at work. They gather evidence, interview witnesses, and assess the validity and value of the claim.
Motor Vehicle Claims
These claims are less common than property claims, however, some complex motor vehicle claims involve the adjusters, especially those involving commercial fleets or high-value vehicles. Claims adjuster insurance entails the damage assessment, verifying circumstances, and helping determine repair costs or total loss valuations.
Specialist and High-Value Claims
Certain claims require specialist knowledge, such as those involving high-value assets like fine art, jewellery, or machinery. Insurance adjusters with similar expertise provide detailed valuations and loss assessments to ensure accurate settlements.
Catastrophic or Major Loss Claims
In cases of large-scale disasters or complex claims involving multiple parties or locations, or damages to buildings, adjusters coordinate detailed investigations and collaborate with other experts (engineers, surveyors, forensic accountants) to manage the claim comprehensively.
Other claims that adjusters also handle are:
- Environmental Claims
- Heritage Claims
- Private Claims
- Real Estate Claims
- Subsidence Claims
- Third-Party Property Damage
Type Of Coverage for Insurance Adjusters In the UK
Professional Indemnity Insurance
This is the only insurance cover that provides coverage to Insurance or Claim Adjusters in the UK: Professional Indemnity Insurance (PI). It protects you against legal costs and claims for damages to third parties. Three main reasons make it necessary for Claims adjusters to seek this coverage:
- Secure your business and mitigate financial risks associated with claims.
- Specialised coverage for insurance adjusters, customised to the unique needs of their profession.
- Protects reputation and profits in the event of a claim.
Covers Provided By The Employer
The following are the covers that insurance adjusters receive when an insurance company employs them. That insurance company will then offer the following cover to its employees through their own insurance plan:
- Accidental Damage
This cover protects insurance adjusters against accidental damage to property or assets while performing their professional duties. Whether they are inspecting a site or handling equipment, accidental damage coverage ensures that unforeseen mishaps do not result in costly liabilities. - Business Equipment
The job of insurance adjusters relies on specialised business equipment such as laptops, cameras, and surveying tools. The purpose of this cover is to protect these valuable assets against theft, loss, or damage, ensuring uninterrupted operations and minimising financial loss. - Business Interruption
If the business operations of a claims adjuster are disrupted due to insured events, such as property damage or equipment failure, the cover compensates for lost income and ongoing expenses. This helps maintain financial stability during affected time periods. - Employers’ Liability
Claim adjusters’ hiring company is liable to meet legal obligations towards their employees during the claim investigation. Employers’ liability insurance covers claims arising from employee injuries or illnesses received during work. It protects the business against costly compensation claims. - Public Liability
Public liability insurance protects claim adjusters against claims for injury or property damage suffered by third parties during their work. This cover protects the business reputation and avoids financial losses from legal claims by clients, contractors, or visitors.
The claim adjuster insurance is a service with great responsibility, dealing with large-scale and complex insurance claims. In the UK, the insurers face a relatively complex process; hence, hiring a insurance adjuster to do this job is a wise choice. It is important to understand the responsibility of protecting their employee.
What Is Not Included in Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII) for Loss Adjusters?
The table below shows the exclusions from PII.
| Exclusion | Details |
|---|---|
| Bodily Injury & Death | Physical injury claims will not be considered. |
| Property Damage | Any damage to property (self or third party) which is not related to professional duty. |
| Fraud & Dishonesty | Claims arising from fraudulent or dishonest acts are excluded. |
| Criminal Acts | Claims arising from illegal or unlawful activities are excluded, like misreporting to financially favour the policyholder. |
| Fines & Penalties | Regulatory fines or punitive damages are also excluded from the policy. |
| Known Circumstances | If any claims arise from known issues that were present and known before the policy started, coverage will not be provided. |
| War & Terrorism | Any claims related to war, terrorism, or nuclear events. |
How to Prepare for a Claim Adjuster Visit?
As a policyholder, you must prepare well for a claim adjuster visit to make the insurance claim process smoother, faster, and more accurate. You must be aware by now that they assess the validity and value of your claim. Hence, being organized and cooperative is essential. The claim adjuster must also play fair and square so the policyholder also receives the financial support to keep the business running.
Here are key steps to help you prepare effectively:
Review Your Insurance Policy
Before the visit, you must carefully read your insurance policy documents. Go through every aspect, such as coverage, terms, exclusions, and any clauses relevant to your claim. This will help you answer the adjuster’s questions confidently and understand what is covered.
Gather All Relevant Documentation
As a policyholder, you must collect and organise all paperwork related to the loss. Having the documents ready and organised will support your claim and facilitate the adjuster’s visit.
The documents you should keep ready include:
- Insurance policy documents
- Receipts, invoices, and warranties for damaged or lost items
- Photographs or videos of the damage before and after the incident
- Repair estimates or quotes from contractors
Make a Detailed Inventory of Damaged Items
Create a detailed list of all damaged or lost items, including descriptions, purchase dates, and approximate values. Keep any supporting evidence with you, such as receipts or photos. This helps ensure nothing is overlooked during the inspection.
Document the Damage Thoroughly
Insurance adjuster gather every possible evidence, so you must also take clear photographs or videos of all damaged areas and items before the adjuster arrives. This visual evidence provides a clear record and can be used to support your claim.
Prepare to Provide Detailed Information
You must be confident and fully attentive to explain the circumstances of the loss, including:
- When and how the incident occurred
- Any actions taken to mitigate further damage
- Details of any witnesses or third parties involved
Providing accurate and consistent information helps the adjuster understand the claim fully.
Be Present During the Inspection
Being present during the site inspection can be vital, so policyholders must attend the site visit if possible. This allows you to point out all damage, answer questions directly, and provide additional evidence. It also helps build a transparent and cooperative relationship.
Take Notes During the Visit
Keep a record of the discussions, observations, and any commitments made by the claim adjuster. This can be useful if discrepancies arise later in the claims process.
Ask Questions
Don’t hesitate to ask the claims adjuster about the process, what they need from you, and how the claim will proceed. If you can understand their role and timeline, it can reduce your stress and clarify expectations.
Cooperate Fully and Be Honest
Provide truthful and complete information. Misrepresentation or exaggeration can lead to claim denial or legal consequences. Your cooperation helps ensure a fair and timely settlement.
Your insurer hires a claim adjuster to thoroughly investigate the filed claim. You must perform your role and follow all the bits of advice to seek a positive response.
How To Choose A Reputable Claim Adjuster in the UK
Experience and Expertise
Verify their track record and success in managing comparable claims.
Nationwide Coverage and Local Presence
- Ensure they cover your geographic area or has nationwide reach.
- Local knowledge helps in inspections and accessing regional contractors.
Regulatory Compliance and Professional Accreditation
- Confirm if they are authorised by the FCA for regulatory compliance and ethical standards.
- Look for memberships with bodies like the Chartered Institute of Loss Adjusters (CILA) or Institute of Public Loss Assessors (IPLA).
Reputation and Client Testimonials
- Research online reviews, testimonials, and case studies to assess the reliability and professionalism of insurance adjusters before hiring.
- Seek recommendations from trusted sources or industry professionals.
Specialist Claim Adjusters
These claims adjusters have expertise in niche areas such as liability, engineering, marine, agriculture, fine art, or cyber claims. They are of great importance to provide:
- Deep sector-specific knowledge
- Ability to handle unique or technically complex claims
- Essential for industries with specialised insurance needs
They are best suited to deal with businesses or individuals with claims involving specialist assets, industries, or risks.
Selecting the right type of insurance adjuster is crucial for a smooth, fair, and timely claims process. Whether you’re dealing with a straightforward property claim or a major commercial loss, the UK insurance market offers a range of loss adjusting services tailored to your needs.
Transparent Fee Structure
- Discuss the fee model upfront with loss, such as a percentage of the claim, no win no-win-no-fee.
- Ensure there are no hidden fees that are fair and clearly explained.
Communication and Accessibility
- Choose your claims adjuster who is responsive and provides regular updates.
- They should clearly explain the process and answer questions promptly.
Personal Compatibility and Trust
- The insurer must arrange an initial consultation to assess rapport and understanding of your needs.
- Trust and good communication make the claims process smoother.
Challenges and Disputes in the
Claim Adjuster Insurance Process In UK
Disputes commonly occur due to:
Ambiguities in Policy Wording
Prior Awareness and Late Notification
Disagreements Over Damage Valuation
Non-Disclosure and Misrepresentation
Failure to Trigger Insuring Clauses
Delays and Procedural Issues
Exclusion Clauses and Policy Conditions
How to Challenge or Appeal a Loss Adjuster’s Findings
If policyholders don’t agree with a report presented by the loss adjuster, there are steps that they can take to deal with the disagreement:
- Review your policy carefully to understand your coverage, exclusions, and conditions to identify if the findings align with your policy.
- Then gather all the evidence along with all relevant documents, photos, expert reports, and correspondence to support your position.
- Once evidence is gathered, file a request for reassessment. Ask your insurer for a detailed explanation of the findings and request a review if you believe there were some errors.
- If you are still not satisfied, you can hire an Independent Loss Assessor. Hiring a professional who represents your interests can provide an independent valuation and negotiate on your behalf.
- If informal challenges fail, you can also submit a formal appeal through your insurer’s complaints process.
The Escalation Options For Policy Holders
If your appeal does not resolve the dispute, you can escalate it as follows:
- Internal Complaints Procedure: You can always escalate your matter or appeal through the internal complaints procedure, as Insurers are required to have a complaints handling process. You should get a final response within 8 to 9 weeks.
- Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS): If you are not satisfied with the insurer’s final response, you can escalate your complaint to the FOS. It is a free and impartial service that can resolve a dispute been a policyholder and an insurer.
- Legal Action: As a last resort, you may consider taking legal action. However, this path can be costly and time-consuming, and statistics show policyholders succeed in only about one-third of cases.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire a Insurance Adjuster In the UK?
The cost of hiring depends on several factors and scenarios mentioned below.
- Without Insurance
If you hire an independent claims adjuster, the fees can be significant. Generally, it is around 10% of the claim settlement value plus VAT. For example, on a £100,000 claim, fees might reach £10,000. - With Loss Recovery Insurance
If the insurer purchases loss recovery insurance in advance, it can be cost-effective. These policies are available at relatively low premiums and cover the cost of claims if they exceed £5,000. This pre-arranged cover can save you thousands rather than paying large upfront fees for claim adjuster insurance. Fee Structures
There are several fee structures to hire a loss adjuster, depending on claim complexity and size. Some work on a percentage basis of the claim payout, while others may offer fixed fees or hourly rates. The insurer shall decide what suits the situation best.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Insurance Adjuster Professional Indemnity Insurance?
Does PII for Loss Adjusters cover legal fees?
Can it cover claims made by clients?
How can I get a quote for Insurance Adjuster Professional Indemnity Insurance?
Are there additional coverages available?
Why should I hire my own Claim Adjusters or Loss Assessors when my insurance company has appointed one for me?
Why should I use my own Claim Adjuster or Loss Assessor when my Insurers have appointed their own?
How will my Insurers react if I appoint my own Independent Insurance Claim Adjuster?
It is a loss assessor’s responsibility to ensure that you appreciate the importance of any questions that are being asked of you, remove the insurance jargon and explain matters to you in a way that you can understand. There is no reason for an Insurance Company to react negatively if you decide to appoint a loss adjuster.
Related insurance
- Public liability insurance
- Building contractors insurance
- Electrician insurance
- Painters and decorators insurance
- Security company insurance
- Gas engineers insurance
- Catering business insurance
- Performers insurance
- Property maintenance
- Waste management insurance
- Builders insurance
- Reflexology insurance
- Recruitment consultant insurance
- Pressure washing insurance
- Sports coach insurance
- Management consultant insurance
- Labourer insurance
- Dog walker insurance
- Counsellor insurance
- Amusement arcade insurance
- Acupuncture insurance
- Architect insurance
- Nanny insurance
- Artists insurance
- Event insurance
- One-off events insurance
- Carer insurance
- Sports club insurance
- Carpenter & joiners insurance
- Carpet fitters insurance
- Translator insurance
- Business insurance
- Door supervisor insurance
- Social worker insurance
- Publishers insurance
- PAT testing insurance
- Online store insurance
- Marketing consultant insurance
- Lift engineer insurance
- Loss adjuster insurance
- Financial advisor insurance
- Demolition insurance
- Pet breeding insurance
- Computer repair insurance
- Tradesman insurance
- Charity insurance
- Market traders insurance
- Plumber insurance
- Gardener insurance
- Stallholder insurance
- Freelancer insurance
- Teacher insurance
- Plasterer insurance
- Tailor insurance
- Arts and crafts insurance
- Project management insurance
- Home-based business insurance
- Optician insurance
- Occupational therapist insurance
- Locksmith insurance
- Journalist insurance
- Fitness instructor insurance
- Copywriter insurance
- Consultant insurance
- Chimney sweep insurance
- Cake makers insurance
- Small business insurance
- Photographer insurance
- Community group insurance
- Bricklayer insurance
- Short term liability insurance
- Welder insurance
- Bouncy castle insurance
- Self-employed business insurance
- Contractors liability insurance
- Limited company insurance
- Residents association insurance
- Private investigator insurance
- Pet sitters insurance
- Pest control insurance
- Mortgage broker insurance
- First aid insurance
- Dog breeding insurance
- Candle maker insurance
- Alarm installers insurance
- Fast food restaurant insurance
- Personal trainer insurance
- Handyman insurance
- Mechanic insurance
- Videographer insurance
- Steel erector insurance
- Tour operator insurance
- Sole Trader insurance
- One day event insurance
- Scaffolding insurance
- Subcontractor insurance
- Window cleaner insurance
- Printers insurance
- Pet grooming insurance
- Event organiser insurance
- Museum insurance
- Nutritionist insurance
- Childcare insurance
- Landscape gardener insurance
- Graphic designers insurance
- Deli insurance
- Antique dealers insurance