Fire broke out on the 18th April 2012 in Souter Johnnie’s Inn in Kirkoswald, Ayrshire.
Kirkoswald
This large thatched property was owned by Costley & Costley Hotelier Ltd, and stood on the site of a former school house attended by Robert Burns. Proprietor and chef Bill Costley had previously spent £1 million updating the inn, which opened six years ago. Despite the efforts of 40 firefighters, the stock, fixtures and fittings were completely destroyed in the blaze, and the thatched roof collapsed in on the kitchen and restaurant area.
Despite the devastation, Mr Costley was determined to reopen the historic building. He employed Harris Balcombe partner Jonathan Samuelson and director Adrian Gilluly, who arrived soon after the fire. Initially, the insurers and their investigators refused to accept liability, inferring that there had been a breach of policy surrounding the construction of the building and the alleged cause. Policy specialist Adrian organised independent fire investigators, who found enough evidence to prove that the policy condition had not been breached. We also showed that the equipment and stock were a total loss. After three months of negotiations, the insurers accepted liability.
The business was closed temporarily, and we were able to negotiate a very detailed loss of gross profit claim for the full indemnity period. After their substantial loss, the owners decided to rebuild the cottage slightly differently, emphasising formerly unused features of the building. Having forced the insurers to accept liability, we negotiated a quantum claim, delivering a cash settlement which enabled the clients to re-establish the business as they wanted, and with a final result that far exceeded expectations. Renamed ‘Souter’s Inn’, the hotel was redesigned with a more contemporary feel, and has proved a hit with tourists and locals alike. It now accommodates up to 130 diners, with a focus on serving high quality food to those wishing to explore the local sights.
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.
Hassle free, no obligations is how we operate. So if you’d like to speak to us call our 24/7 Helpline on 03300229179 or email us at info@harrisbalcombe.com. Or simply click the button below ...