A fire broke out in the early hours of the 30th July 2012 in the famous Chinese restaurant, almost 15 years after a serious blaze had devastated the building.
Manchester
A fire broke out in the early hours of the 30th July 2012 in the famous Chinese restaurant, almost 15 years after a serious blaze had devastated the building. Harris Balcombe also worked on this initial incident, which destroyed most of their premises and necessitated a move to temporary accommodation. Although this more recent fire was not as destructive, the owners were keen to show customers that the restaurant would again continue to run despite the damage. This was concentrated in one half of the basement kitchen (although the smoke reached further), where stock, contents and fixtures and fittings were completely written off.
As a nationally-recognised brand, it was essential to the client that the business reopen as soon as possible. We took on and managed this major business interruption claim, convincing the loss adjusters to accelerate the works, which were based on a schedule carefully drawn up by our chartered surveyors that aimed to minimise disruption to the restaurant.
We closed off the basement kitchen, creating an external entrance that contractors could use without disturbing the chefs and ground floor restaurants or the banqueting facilities on the first and second floors. Thanks to our help, all of this was paid for by insurers, and the restaurant was able to partially reopen after only five days of closure.
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 ...