Experiencing property damage can be one of the most stressful and disruptive events a homeowner faces. Whether it’s a sudden fire, a burst pipe, or a devastating storm, the aftermath is often overwhelming. When it comes to navigating the claims process, the complex language of insurance policies, the endless paperwork, and the back-and-forth with insurers can feel like a second disaster.
At All Property Claims, our mission is to take that burden off your shoulders, acting as your professional advocate to ensure a fair and swift settlement.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about working with a property claims management company, from understanding what we do to why contacting us first can make all the difference, especially when dealing with a complex fire claim.
What Type of Property Insurance Claims Can Claims Management Companies Help With?
Claims management companies are equipped to handle a wide variety of insurance claims, acting as an essential lifeline for policyholders in distress. We work with clients to manage and resolve claims arising from almost any form of property damage covered by their insurance policy.
- Fire Damage: A fire claim is often the most complex and emotionally taxing. The destruction includes widespread smoke and soot damage, as well as water damage from firefighting efforts. The claim needs to account for the building structure, contents, temporary accommodation, and the extensive cleaning required.
- Water Damage: This can range from a minor leak to a major flood. Claims often involve damaged floors, walls, and ceilings. An expert can help identify hidden issues, such as mold growth, that can emerge later.
- Storm Damage: High winds, hail, and heavy rain can cause significant damage to roofs, fences, and external structures. Proving the damage was caused by a specific storm event can be challenging.
- Flood Damage: Beyond water damage, flood claims require a comprehensive approach to stripping out damaged property, drying the structure, and sanitizing the area. This is an extensive process that requires careful management to ensure a successful claim.
- Malicious Damage: Whether it’s vandalism or a break-in, these incidents can be emotionally draining. We can help gather evidence and manage the claim to ensure all losses are covered.
What Do Property Claims Management Companies Do?
A claims management company, like us at APC, acts on behalf of policyholders to handle the entire claims process. Unlike an insurer’s own loss adjuster, who protects the insurer’s interests, an independent loss assessor prioritises the policyholder.
Our role involves:
- Assessing the extent of property damage
- Gathering evidence to support the claim
- Handling communications with the insurance company
- Negotiating settlements to ensure a fair payout
- Assisting with repairs and reinstatement
In essence, we are your professional counterpart to the insurer’s team, ensuring a balanced and fair process.
Do Property Claims Management Companies Charge for Their Services?
The cost of hiring a claims management company can vary. Some firms charge a percentage of the final settlement, while others may offer a free service if you use one of their recommended contractors.
At All Property Claims if we take on your case, our service is completely free for homeowners. We are compensated directly by your insurer for any completed works, meaning you do not have to worry about paying us any fees. You are only responsible for paying your policy excess once the claim is settled, a cost you would have to bear regardless of who manages the claim.
When Should I Contact a Claims Management Company?
You should contact your chosen claims management company as soon as possible after the damage has occurred, ideally before calling your insurer. This initial step is critical. Many homeowners mistakenly believe they must report the damage to their insurer first, but this can lead to mistakes that impact their claim negatively.
Instead, call our team for immediate, expert advice. We will then report the claim on your behalf, ensuring all necessary information is provided correctly from the outset. This early intervention is the most effective way to protect your claim and maximise your eventual payout.
Are Claims Management Companies Worth It?
If you’ve suffered significant property damage, especially from a major event like a fire, hiring a claims management company can be highly beneficial. Here’s why:
- Expertise: We understand the nuances of insurance policies and the tactics used by insurers to reduce payouts. Our expertise ensures your claim is presented with the strongest possible evidence.
- Time-Saving: The claims process is notoriously time-consuming, involving a great deal of paperwork, phone calls, and site visits. We handle all of this, freeing you up to focus on your well-being.
- Reduced Stress: We take the burden of the insurance claim off your shoulders, providing you with professional guidance every step of the way.
- Stronger Claims: With professional documentation and expert negotiation, we significantly increase your chances of a successful and fair claim, ensuring your payout fully covers all damages and reinstatement costs.
What Can I Expect From the Claims Process?
The property insurance claims process with All Property Claims is designed to be as seamless as possible for you. Here is a step-by-step breakdown:
- Initial Contact and Survey Booking: You contact us, and we immediately gather your insurer’s details and arrange a convenient survey appointment. This is the crucial first step to ensuring your claim starts correctly and without delay.
- Survey and Documentation: A qualified loss assessor from our team will visit your property. They will take detailed measurements, photos, and notes on the damage, from structural issues to specific items like damaged floors. This comprehensive report forms the backbone of your claim.
- Report Submission and Loss Adjuster Appointment: We submit our detailed report and quote to your insurer. We then liaise with them to arrange a meeting between our surveyor and their loss adjuster. This meeting is pivotal, as it’s where all costs are agreed upon. Our goal is to ensure every aspect of your loss is acknowledged and covered, securing the maximum possible payout.
- Restoration and Reinstatement: Once the settlement is agreed upon, our trusted restoration contractors begin work. They will work diligently to restore your property to its original condition, handling everything from fire and smoke remediation to general building repairs.
- Final Billing and Settlement: After all restoration work is completed, we send the final bill directly to your insurer. We handle all the paperwork and financial logistics. You are only responsible for paying your policy excess; the rest is managed between us and your insurer, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free conclusion.
Are Claims Management Companies Regulated in the UK?
Yes, companies that manage insurance claims in the UK are strictly regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This regulation provides peace of mind that you are dealing with a professional and trustworthy organisation.
When choosing a property claims management company, it is essential to verify their FCA authorisation. This simple check ensures they adhere to strict standards, including being transparent about fees and providing honest and accurate advice. This regulatory framework is in place to protect you, the policyholder, from rogue operators and ensures a high standard of service across the industry.
Contact APC today for Expert Property Claims Management
All Property Claims serves as your expert advocate, turning a complex and stressful process into a manageable one. By handling your fire claim from start to finish and working to maximise your payout, we allow you to focus on what matters most: recovering and rebuilding your life.
Contact All Property Claims today to discuss your situation and get free, no-obligation advice. Our team is available 24/7 to provide the expert guidance you need to secure a fair and swift settlement.