After the Ash Settles

There have been many impressive accounts of how people have defied all odds to get themselves, their family and friends home at great expense, time and effort following the volcano eruption in Iceland on April 14th. This has thrown the spot light on their travel company or insurer and how well it has or has not looked after them in their moment of need.

This event has shown up some differences as to how these companies have reacted. I set out a brief overview below.

Some insurers, it seems, have viewed it as an act of god, thus ensuring that cover does not extend to this eventuality. Some however have argued that this event was weather related as the ash cloud was blown into our airspace and have therefore provided cover. Some have stuck to mitigating clauses such as exclusion for claims arising from withdrawal of service on the order of the Civil Aviation Authority.

Each policy is therefore very different. We advise you to check the wording carefully or discuss with your broker exactly what is and what isn't covered within their policies.

If you were one of the many who found themselves stuck abroad, various conventions make it the responsibility of the airline or tour operator to look after you and reimburse any additional costs you incur. Only this week, Ryanair backed down from their refusal to reimburse and agreed to be bound by European rules on compensation.

What is going to happen going forward? Who knows if this situation will occur again? We strongly recommend you review your policy and check any limitations. It will almost certainly be the case that the cheaper the policy, the less cover it is likely to provide.

If you are a company that relies on imports and exports, it may be worth reviewing your contingency plans and add this type of event to your claims scenarios.

Huber Dixon Insurance Services Ltd provide a helpful, creative and sincere service that they are excited and passionate about, looking after your Commercial and Personal Insurance needs.

Please contact us for further information on 0845 430 5430 / info@huberdioxn.com

Quinn Has Entered Administration

Personal and Commercial Lines Insurer Quinn Insurance which is based in Ireland has entered administration and the Irish Regulator has effectively taken control, due to the company being in breach of it's solvency ratios.

In the UK they have stopped underwriting new business and we are yet to see if this will effect renewals as well.

Don't panic as we understand from reports that existing polices will remain valid
and claims will continue to be paid.

If you have a policy with Quinn and are concerned please contact us for more information in respect of your options - we are here to help

0845 430 5430
info@huberdixon.com

Specialists In Insuring Eco Builds

An Eco Build uses sustainable technologies and materials to obtain an extremely healthy living environment and reduce our carbon footprint by utilising resources such as Rainwater Harvesting, Solar Power, Photovoltaic's, Geothermal & Insulation in existing buildings. We can also further improve our situation at an earlier stage with new-builds using traditional ecological materials such Timber (FCS) or (PEFC), Straw, Cob (mixture of clay, soil & straw) & Hemp Lime.

The government is very keen for us to embrace these technologies but as we know these do come at a higher initial cost and we need to carefully consider how best to protect any investment we make.

Make Your Insurer Aware

In general a standard home insurance will automatically cater for most of technologies and materials, although it goes without saying a timber framed or thatched property is going to carry a greater fire risk and therefore could be subject to a higher premium charge. However, it is very important that you make any insurer aware of what is included with your property as they may well assume its a standard property built using standard or current methods and materials. It is essential you make sure anything that is not directly attached to the building e.g. a wind turbine, is advised to them and noted as they may not consider this and above all you must ensure your building sum insured accurately reflects any such additions.

We Understand How to Insure An Eco Build

As a specialist broker for all types of property we are able to help you identify the items that require special note and will advise you on the best way to make sure these are included. We have access to a range of insurers who can adapt their polices for your specific requirements whether it's for a modern eco property or a period or listed property which is being improved.

Please contact us for more information

0845 430 5430
info@huberdixon.com

The photograph was reproduced with kind permission from Blackdown Horticultural Consultants Ltd - greenroof, whilst at the Ecobuild show at Earls Court March 2010

Watch Out For Winter

Looking After Your Home In The Winter Months
In the event of cold weather it is important to be prepared. Please download the brochure below that highlights some of the important points to help plan ahead & reduce the risks to you & your property.

Watch Out For Winter - Download the Brochure here

The brochure has been supplied with permission from Sterling Insurance Group Ltd. The document makes reference to features specific to Sterling contracts – Home Emergency cover & therefore has been designed & created exclusively for the benefit of Sterling policyholders.

Please contact us for more information

0845 430 5430
privateclients@huberdixon.com