This was a case where the building was struck by lightning during the fierce storms that ravaged the country during the early part of 2014.
What made this more incredible is that at the time of the strike there were a group of ladies in the main prayer room close to the Palki. There was internal CCTV cameras which clearly show the extent of the power of this lightning strike as the screen clearly shows a vast amount of masonry and ceiling tiles collapsing on or around this group of ladies and miraculously no one was injured other than one elderly lady in her late 80’s went to hospital due to shock.
The Temple has been built back to its former glory and whilst the refurbishment works were being undertaken they agreed with contractors that on certain days they would need to have temporary marquees put inside the building to enable religious events to continue and indeed continue to have numerous weddings proceed without cancelling same. The loss was over £150K. The force of nature and the amount of power meant that a number of metal purlins and walls had to be replaced and rebuilt and the entire project took nearly nine months to complete although it could have been quicker had there been the decision to stop contractors working due to the various religious events. This actually assisted insurers as it meant that the loss of donations was significantly less than perhaps they could have been and this was achieved by a larger number of members of the Temple working unselfishly to allow these religious events and weddings to go ahead
Thank you very much for all your help in your negotiations with the insurers and successfully securing our claim.
At this point, you would hope that your insurance company is there to help but unfortunately, this is not always the case. We have known families who have felt intimidated by insurers and have been treated as though they have done something wrong, or are in some way to blame for their situation.
How to respond to a Loss Adjuster
Why they ask
This is to compare your version of events against your policy coverage and timelines.
Smart answer
Always stick to the facts. Avoid speculation or emotional exaggeration.
With a loss assessor
A loss assessor will help you structure your account clearly so you don’t over- or under-share.
How to respond to a Loss Adjuster
Why they ask
They’re basically verifying if the event falls within your coverage period.
Smart answer
Be as specific as possible with the date and time.
Avoid
'I think it was last week sometime...'
Tip
A loss assessor will ensure that this matches other documentation, like alarm logs or photos.
How to respond to a Loss Adjuster
Why they ask
They want to confirm the circumstances and establish liability or negligence.
Smart answer
Answer honestly and clearly, and mention if others were present.
Tip
If others witnessed the event, a loss assessor may advise collecting statements from them to bolster your claim.
How to respond to a Loss Adjuster
Why they ask
They want to validate the items you’re claiming for.
Smart answer
Where possible, provide receipts, invoices, photos or warranty documents.
No receipts?
No stress, a loss assessor may be able to help you establish the value using alternative methods.
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