A Loss Assessor is a professional appointed by a policyholder to provide independent assistance with a property insurance claim.
Unlike a loss adjuster, who may be appointed by an insurance company to assess a claim, a loss assessor is appointed by the policyholder and acts on their behalf throughout the claims process.
At Imperial Claims Consultants, we act exclusively on behalf of policyholders. We do not act for insurance companies.
What does a Loss Assessor do?
The role of a loss assessor is to help guide and support policyholders through what can often be a complicated and stressful insurance claim.
Depending on the circumstances of your claim, this may include:
- reviewing your insurance policy;
- explaining how the claims process works;
- inspecting and assessing the damage;
- reviewing available evidence;
- identifying the insured losses;
- liaising with your insurer, loss adjuster, surveyors and other relevant parties;
- helping prepare information in support of your claim; and
- providing professional guidance throughout the claims process.
Every claim is different, and the support provided will depend on the circumstances of the loss and the terms of your insurance policy.
Who appoints a Loss Assessor?
The policyholder appoints the loss assessor.
This means the loss assessor works for you, rather than your insurance company.
At Imperial Claims Consultants, our client is always the policyholder.
Do I have to use a Loss Assessor?
No.
Many straightforward insurance claims are handled directly between the policyholder and the insurer without the need for a loss assessor.
However, where the damage is significant, the claim is complex or you would simply like independent professional support throughout the process, you may decide that appointing a loss assessor would be beneficial.
When should I contact a Loss Assessor?
Ideally, you should seek independent advice as early as possible after discovering property damage.
However, even if you have already reported the claim to your insurer or the claim is already underway, it may still be possible for a loss assessor to assist, depending on the circumstances.
Does a Loss Assessor guarantee that my claim will be successful?
No.
No professional can honestly guarantee that an insurance claim will be accepted or that a particular settlement will be achieved.
Every claim depends on the facts, the available evidence and the terms of the insurance policy.
A professional loss assessor helps ensure your claim is properly understood, professionally presented and supported by the available evidence.
Is a Loss Assessor regulated?
Claims management activities are regulated, and it is important to understand who you are appointing.
M&D Claims Consultants Ltd, trading as Imperial Claims Consultants, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 1011508) to carry on regulated claims management activities.
If you are considering appointing any loss assessor, it is sensible to check that they are appropriately authorised to carry on the regulated activities they are offering.
What should I do next?
If you’ve suffered significant property damage and would like to understand whether independent professional claims assistance may be beneficial, contact Imperial Claims Consultants for an initial review.
We’ll discuss what has happened, explain whether we believe we may be able to help and answer any questions you may have before you decide whether to appoint us.
If we don’t believe our involvement is likely to add value or that we are the right organisation to assist, we’ll tell you honestly.
