In light of the widespread and heavily reported disturbances, considerable damage and theft has occurred to many buildings throughout London, with copycat activity sporadically occurring elsewhere in the country. Initial estimates are already running into many tens of million pounds in damage to and theft of property from both businesses and individuals.
We have already received many claims notifications from our clients and have a team in place ready to handle claims. Likewise, we are in constant dialogue with loss adjusters and insurers to ensure our clients’ claims receive the necessary attention.
What you need to do to help us help you:
- Should you suffer from any loss related to the disturbances, you should inform your insurer immediately.
To fully protect you and the Insurer, it is essential that immediate notification is provided to insurers, in line with the full terms and conditions and notification provisions of your insurance policy. Most policies stipulate losses must be notified within 7 days therefore, any delays incurred may be to the detriment of your insurance claim. You must also notify the police immediately.
- Make it clear in any claim notification you make whether you are currently unable to access any premises due to it being condemned as dangerous or designated a crime scene.
- You should also lodge a claim directly with the relevant local Police Authority within 42 days (or 7 days if your specific policy terms require it).
You may not be aware that there may be recourse against the relevant local Police Authority. This is defined within the Riot (Damages) Act 1886 but will depend on the stance adopted by the Government in terms of how the events are classified. Lodging your claim with the Police may protect against any uninsured loss. The standard period is usually 14 days but as part of the Parliamentary measures announced by David Cameron on 11 August 2011, this has been increased to 42 days. Failure to lodge a claim against the local police authority within the notification deadlines may be to the detriment of your claim.
- Record all claims related costs in as much detail as you can and retain all original documentation, photographs or video you have been able to take that is pertinent to the claim.
Often in major loss situations, the full facts do take time to materialise which is why it is important to maintain records throughout the process.
- Work closely with the insurer and loss adjustor so that your claim can be processed as swiftly as possible.
- Keep us informed of any material developments during the claims process.
Additional information on claims against Police Authorities
Claim Form
In respect of the UK Riots and the claims for compensation against the relevant local Police Authority, we are now in receipt of the revised claim form which clients are able to download and use.
Download the form here 
Riot Damages Act Claim Form.pdf
Which Police Authority?
In addition, and to assist our clients, the following website link gives relevant contact information for all Police Authorities, to ensure claim forms are submitted to the correct Authority.
http://www.apa.police.uk/your-police-authority/contact-information
Contact us
Any questions can be forwarded directly to your usual/local contact or claims representative within Gallagher Heath, or you may forward your query through our website contact enquiry form.