Steven has over twenty years experience handling major and complex business interruption and other financial risk claims. He is a leading member of the CILA Special Interest Group on Business Interruption (BI), a member of the CILA Council, an expert witness, and a popular presenter and trainer on the subject of BI and financial risks.
Steven is a dual qualified Chartered Accountant and Chartered Loss Adjuster, and is a published co-author of the Basic Business Interruption book. Before joining Harris Balcombe, Steven was the head of business interruption claims for the RSA UK, and head of financial risk for two leading firms of loss adjusters in the UK.
As a partner of Harris Balcombe, he has acted for many clients across a wide range of industry sectors including: health and wellbeing, care homes, hotel and leisure manufacturing, recycling, gyms, professional services and many others.
Steven is known for his commercial as well as technical knowledge and experience. His understanding that the immediate needs of a business may trump a technical point shapes his negotiations, sometimes leading to settlement within weeks of a loss while on other occasions he may work alongside a client for years to achieve the best possible outcome for their claim and their business.
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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