Claim for Stolen Winter Sports Equipment
Hello everyone,
Last month, while on holiday in France, my snowboard and bindings were stolen.
I originally purchased the equipment for a total of £600. My travel insurance has agreed to compensate me, but only for £250. They cited wear and tear, which they claim reduces the equipment’s value by 10% each year. To clarify, I’ve owned the snowboard, which cost £350, for three years, and the £200 bindings for nine years.
According to my policy, personal belongings are indeed subject to a 10% depreciation per year; however, it also states that winter sports equipment is not categorized as personal belongings.
For winter sports gear, the policy mentions: “If we pay to replace winter sports equipment that you own, and the item is more than one year old, the most we will pay is the current purchase price less a deduction for wear and tear.”
I’m having trouble finding further details from Admiral, the insurance company.
Do I have a strong case here? What steps should I take next?
Thank you for your help!
It sounds like you have a complicated situation with your insurance claim, but you may indeed have a case to dispute the amount offered by Admiral. Here are some steps you can consider to proceed:
Review Your Policy Thoroughly: Double-check your policy documentation, especially the sections related to stolen winter sports equipment. Pay close attention to the definitions and terms regarding depreciation and wear and tear.
Clarify the Equipment Classification: Since the policy states that winter sports equipment is not classified as personal belongings, you may argue that the 10% depreciation clause should not apply to your claim. Gather any evidence that supports your understanding of this classification.
Calculate Replacement Value: Determine the current market value of your snowboard and bindings. Look for similar items available for sale, perhaps using online marketplaces, to substantiate your claim for a higher payout.
Prepare a Detailed Argument: Write a clear and concise letter to Admiral outlining your understanding of the policy terms, the value of your equipment, and how the depreciation should be applied (or not applied). Include any supporting documents, such as purchase receipts, market price evidence, and policy excerpts.
Follow up Effectively: After submitting your argument, follow up with the claims department to check the status of your dispute. Keep records of all communications for your reference.
Consider Escalation: If you don’t receive a satisfactory response, ask for your case to be escalated to a supervisor or a claims manager. You can also consider filing a complaint with the Financial Ombudsman Service if necessary.
Seek Professional Advice: If you continue to struggle, consulting with a legal professional or a consumer advocacy group may provide additional guidance on your rights and options.
Keep your conversations professional and organized, and hopefully, you’ll be able to resolve the issue in your favor. Good luck!