Under what circumstances will EQC, Fletcher EQR and/or the private insurers take an independent assessment report into account if it challenges their own assessment? How will the outcome of any consideration be communicated to the homeowner?
Asked: 24 June 2013
Category: Independent reports
Lumley advises:
If a customer has gone to the expense of undertaking an independent assessment we would absolutely take that into consideration – however, we are not obliged to follow the information outlined in the report. Depending on the costs, there are circumstances whereby we do reimburse customers for the cost of these reports. In the first instance we ask customers to speak to their Case Manager. Approval for cost reimbursement should be sought via the claims department.
IAG advises:
IAG will take into account any independent reports that homeowners produce. These will be reviewed alongside reports obtained by IAG assessors and engineers and the outcome of the review communicated directly to the homeowner.
Vero advises:
Customers should contact their broker/adviser for assistance first. It is best to discuss the individual circumstances for a unique solution.
Tower advises:
TOWER will review and consider all reports provided by a relevant expert, these will be peer- reviewed by our project management office and a meeting may be requested with all relevant parties to resolve any differences.
AA Insurance advises:
AA Insurance will consider any independent assessment reports produced by relevant experts and review these together with any existing reports that AA Insurance already have for the property.
After all the information has been carefully reviewed, we will discuss the outcome directly with our customer. Our customers also have the option to meet with us after the review to resolve any differences.
Southern Response advises:
If a reputable and suitably qualified engineer undertakes the work we will consider that work in determining the repair or rebuild methodology needed.
We will discuss the report directly with the homeowner.