Pet insurance - do you always need a preauthorisation for large costs?

1122abc

I have lifetime pet insurance. 

My 1 year old dog is under investigation for joint problems and likely needs surgery. The total cost will be in the thousands (£8-10k) but the vets do not know exactly what type of surgery is required yet. 

So far I have spent £1k on x rays and vet appointments. Her symptoms started after our policy started. 

Should I call the insurer to give them a heads up of the cost to confirm if they can cover it? The vet didn’t really give an opinion. 

I’m worrying that the insurer may reject the claim because I’ve gone ahead with the x rays without informing them. Will this be an issue?

DullGreyGuy

Generally not but clearly you get more certainty the earlier you engage with them. It's not like a Home claim where they'll send someone out who'll want to see the damage pre-repairs with their own eyes. If options come up they may tell you that X would be covered but Z wouldn't be which may influence your decision. 

TELLIT01

Once the vet gives an estimate of the costs, I would speak to the insurer just to be certain that they will cover the cost.  If they won't cover the full cost you at least know where you stand.

sheramber

You may find the insurance company will only pre authorise with your vet, not with you.

It depends on the company.

Is there anything stated in your policy document about pre authorisation?