I first crossed paths many years ago with Oakleafe Claims.
A serious burglary and theft of jewellery of over 20K and other expensive items in Emerson Park, Hornchurch.
I had been invited by a local police officer to help the residents secure their premises immediately.
I thought we were the only people apart from the emergency services that protected people and their best interests especially after such a devastating experience such as a burglary of this kind.
It never dawned on me that there were companies out there to ensure that customers got the maximum from their insurance claim including;
- Burglary & Theft
- Fire
- Leak Damage
- Storm Damage
“A loss assessor usually obtains up to 40% more than you would by handling the claim yourself”
Read on…….
We are seeing more homes burgled these days even with security systems in place, especially those with ring doorbells and DIY alarm systems.
How do you know the insurance company are going to pay out when you have been burgled?
How do you know you have the right type of security system installed?
The Emotional Impact of Burglary
Even if nothing has been stolen, the thought of a stranger being in your home can be very distressing and feel like a violation of your security.
Some people blame themselves if they forgot to secure a window or door, or if they were tricked by the burglar, but it’s important to remember it’s not your fault.
Children in particular can be very frightened and may need reassurance, even if they don’t talk much about what’s happened. Not all stolen goods are replaceable and some people may lose items of significant sentimental and personal value. This can be very upsetting.
My Home has been Burgled – What should I do?
First thing is call the Police!
There are some things you can do to help reduce the impact of a burglary and to improve your home security:
A monitored alarm system can have active police response. If you don’t have this level of alarm system then obviously call the police immediately and get your home secured as quickly as possible.
If you have home insurance and want to make a claim, you will need a crime reference number from the police but don’t call your insurance company yet.
Call Oakleafe Claims
The Claim Experience?
Once you call insurers, they will appoint a Loss Adjuster to validate the claim and check you have met the terms of your policy. Loss Adjusters are there to look after the interests of the Insurance Company, NOT you!
Despite their claim, they are not independent. If they find you have not met the conditions of your policy, they will attempt to refuse (repudiate) your claim.
They will check the sums insured are adequate and attempt to significantly reduce any pay-out. Loss Adjusters usually rely on Law enforcement trained personnel to interrogate policyholders and investigate the claim.
Your history, financial obligations and status are questioned to look for motives that may implicate you- even when you are completely innocent.
Why would you want to attempt this without any representation on your side?
Oakleafe are on your side!
Oakleafe are the only party who is there to look after your interests fully, negotiating settlements with the Loss Adjuster to get you what you’re entitled to.
They actively apply pressure for insurers to accept liability, and ensure that you are not treated as blameworthy.
Their experienced Loss Assessors offer unparalleled assistance in household theft claims.
Many of their team are Ex-Loss Adjusters who have enormous experience and know how Insurers work.
This could be the difference in some cases to getting a settlement or in some cases not.
You may be a good negotiator but are you an expert in Insurance?
Let them handle the complications of negotiating your household theft claim and leave you to concentrate on looking after your family.
I would love to introduce you to Stuart Marshall who is Oakleafe Claims Group Sales Manager
Having worked in the financial sector for 25 years for several large corporations Stuart is well placed in the organisation with his knowledge and competency in the insurance sector.
Stuart is Head of Group Sales and business development with responsibility for the national sales force. Promoting and networking the companies core values and services to Businesses and individuals.
Contact Stuart by email stuart.marshall@oakleafe.com
or call Oakleafe Claims consultation helpline on 0333 2101 999
Some Facts
“One in five home insurance claims are unsuccessful” Association of British Insurers
“Insurers may have minimum security requirements, or offer premium discounts for certain security measures” Association of British Insurers
So, what happened to the family in Emerson Park, Hornchurch?
Well, A Matter of Security provided them with a state-of-the-art security system, mobile patrols and alarm response so that the family felt safe following the burglary.
Oakleafe Claims insured that the family got the maximum claim they deserved and took all the stress away from dealing with the insurance companies loss adjusters
And we all lived happily ever after.
Jamie Reynolds
Managing Director
