Help please with home insurance claim

Slimeball20

Hi there,

Over a year ago, one of the panels of our conservatory fell into the house due to a storm, therefore allowing rain onto a brand new carpet that we had bought.

We claimed on insurance. The assessor sent out analysts to prove that we hadn't done the damage ourselves and we requested new for old, which is allowed under the terms of the policy.

However, the assessor has refused this and has offered us cash that we have refused to accept.

We have asked for a new valuation which she said she would sort out.

Today, however we've received a mandate 'ordering' us to accept the money offered within a week or they will automatically force us to accept it anyway.

I feel like reporting her to Watchdog!

wolftastic_2

I am slightly confused by this. From what you say the damage caused by the storm to your carpet is clearly covered, and should be paid in full for a new carpet no problem.

If you are claiming for the roof itself, then this is a little more unclear. If the storm caused the damage to the panels then again this is clearly covered under any non-mickey mouse policy. However, they may be suggested that the panels were defective in the first place.

Can you expand.

Slimeball20

The carpet was damaged, along with a cane suite, and curtains with a valance going around the edge of the curtains.

All we have asked for is new-for-old which she is refusing to grant.

They are offering a sum based on how much she says each item is worth in today's market.

However, we know that we are being short-changed by her estimations, and hence, are refusing to accept what is offered.

Stalemate, but she's not being very professional about it. She's sent 3 different 'experts' out to inspect everything but is basically messing us around.

Bossyboots

You really need to know why they are offering you a lower amount. If you have new for old, I can see no basis for them offering you less. If they are suggesting there was a fault with the panels then they should state that. Otherwise, they are contractually bound to meet the new for old unless there is something in the small print you are missing. Re-read your policy document and if there is no get out clause, insist they pay you the full amount.

Maybe you should turn it on its head and threaten to sue for the money if they do not settle the claim in full.

wolftastic_2

She is messing you about. Most policies these days are on a reinstatement or new for old basis, she is taking the pee.

Can you say what Insurance Company you are insured with?

Write to their Head Office and complain, give then 7 days to reply. If no joy contact the Insurance Ombudsman, they have to provide details. The company you are insured with should have a complaints procedure included in the policy booklet.

Slimeball20

CIS aka Co-Operative Insurance Services

Thanks for the help so far.

Michael.