A Professional Indemnity claim can begin with an allegation that professional services caused financial loss or another form of covered liability.

The process varies according to the nature of the matter and the policy.

Notification and insurer assessment #

The first step is usually notifying Webber Insurance or the insurer of the claim or circumstance.

Relevant information can include:

• The allegation or complaint
• Contracts
• Emails and correspondence
• Reports
• Advice provided
• Project documentation
• A chronology of events

The insurer will assess whether the matter falls within the policy and may request further information.

Depending on the circumstances, the insurer may appoint:

• A claims specialist
• A solicitor
• A barrister
• A technical expert
• Another professional adviser

Investigation, defence and resolution #

The allegation may need to be investigated before any position on liability is reached.

Subject to the policy, defence costs can be covered where the insurer accepts the matter under the policy.

The treatment of defence costs, including whether they are inside or outside the policy limit, varies between policies.

Some claims are resolved through negotiation, mediation or settlement. Others may proceed to formal court or tribunal proceedings.

Any settlement generally needs to be handled in accordance with the policy and insurer requirements.

Do not admit liability, negotiate a settlement or incur substantial defence costs without consulting the insurer.

Webber Insurance can assist with communication between you and the insurer throughout the claim.

Contact our team if you have received a complaint or believe a matter could result in a Professional Indemnity claim.