The dos and don’ts of professional liability claims for architects/engineers-
If your architecture/engineering firm receives a claim it can be stressful. There are some things to be aware of when it does come to claim time.
Do report the claim in a timely manner. As soon as your firm hears that something may be happening or if your firm receives a written claim notice, notify your insurance company and/or your firm’s insurance agent. Timeliness is very important in these situations so that the insurance company can provide an attorney to respond to the matter as needed.
Don’t try to handle the claim within your firm, this could make matters worse, and your insurance company is there to assist with the claims. If your firm tries to handle the claim situation without the insurance company and then later you need to report the claim, there is a chance that the insurance company won’t be able to assist, depending on the policy language.
Do provide as much information on the claim as possible to the insurance company. The initial information requested will be the notice of claim. Then the claims representative will request additional information such as the contract, communication with regards to the claim, and drawings.
Don’t worry, the insurance company is there to help in the claims matter. They want to make sure that the claim is handled properly and to assist your firm in getting the best results on the claim.
Do report a situation or circumstance, even if a notice of claim has not been received, as soon as your firm knows of it happening. Most insurance companies have pre-claims assistance and are there to help before it turns into a full-blown claim.
If your firm has any questions with regards to handling professional liability claims please call, or email, your Professional Underwriter agent for assistance.