Claims Process with Public Liability Insurance
Explains the process of making a claim under Public Liability Insurance policy
Making a Public Liability Insurance Claim (And Staying Calm)
Accidents happen sometimes! A client accidentally trips over a cable in your studio. A visitor accidentally slips on a floor that was just mopped. You know that feeling when everything just seems to drop? That’s why you have Public Liability Insurance—to keep your business safe, your reputation intact, and your peace of mind in check!
If you’re wondering, “What should I do if someone makes a claim against me?”—you’ve come to the right spot!
Check out these simple instructions for reporting a Public Liability Insurance claim!
Easy Sailing: Simple Steps to a Problem-Free Claim
Step # 1: Understand What Counts as a Claim
Not every complaint leads to a big legal problem—but some do, and when that happens, timing really matters. If you get a written or verbal request for compensation, or if someone is talking about taking legal action, it’s a good idea to jump on it quickly.
Even if you just hear about something that might turn into a claim later, it’s best to be proactive. Jumping in and taking action in these situations can really improve things.
But a simple complaint by a customer because they did not enjoy your service or they aren’t happy with the end results – that’s not a claim, that’s a complaint.
Step # 2: Keep things documented
If something goes wrong, no need to get stressed out—just take a practical approach. Go ahead and capture some clear photos of the scene, even if it feels somewhat odd at first! You could also gather the names and contact information of any witnesses who saw what went down?
Don’t forget to save all the important conversations, like emails, medical forms, bookings, or even direct messages. Make sure to keep a good record of your conversations with clients—this means saving any signed consent forms or waivers too. The better your records, the easier your claims process will go.
Step # 3: Let Westminster know as soon as you can!
You must notify your insurance company “as soon as practicable,” even if you’re not sure if the situation will get worse.
Here’s how to get your claim started—fast and easy:
- Submit the claim online easily via your account
- Email at claims@westminster.global
- Post (by mail): If you'd rather send your documents, feel free to mail them to: Claims Director, Westminster Insurance Ltd 5 Allberry Gardens, Weymouth, DT3 6SQ
- Give us a call at 01305 839 939
When you get in touch, be sure to include:
- A outline of exactly what happened—keep it straight-forward
- Any letters, legal matters, or emails you've gotten
- The relevant client records - like signed consent forms
- Any evidence you may have such as photos
Being accurate at this point helps things move along faster and makes everything simpler on everyone involved.
Step # 4: Do not say you're at fault, even if it’s tempting!
It’s natural for wanting to make amends when someone is upset. However, you should not admit fault or make a settlement offer under your Public Liability Insurance coverage unless your insurer gives you written authorization.
Please avoid from saying “sorry” until you have received authorisation from the insurer, as this may undermine your case.
Step #5: Work together
Once your claim has been filed, Westminster Insurance Ltd. will jump in to help you out in a few different ways.
Westminster will deploy a team of expert claim handlers to help with your claim. This may include providing your with required legal defence (within policy limts). They will likely need to gather some more information so they will ask questions. Your part in this is quite simple but super important: just stay engaged, be open, and work together fully.
What Will Your Insurance Cover?
If your claim gets approved, the policy may cover:
- Payment to the injured or affected third party
- Costs for legal defence
- Costs for attending court
- Legal defence fees
Just a quick note: Fees and compensation are only paid up to the limit of your cover level. You will still need to cover any excess mentioned in your policy schedule.
Timing Is Key: What Was Claimed vs When It Actually Took Place
Westminster Insurance offers a claims made policy (Section 6.7) under Professional Indemnity, Public Liability & Medical Malpractice wording, which means that for coverage to apply, the incident must be reported while your policy is still active.
If a claim comes in after your policy has ended, it won’t be covered—unless you make use of the 60-day extended notification period (Section 4.8), which gives you a short window to report incidents that occurred during your coverage but were claimed afterward. Timing is key, so don’t delay when something comes up.
- If you are under the beauty aesthetics industry, make sure to do those required patch tests and hold onto the signed forms (Section 5.51)
- Make sure to snap some before-and-after photos for treatments when necessary (Section 5.50)
- Always make sure to keep track of your client consultation records
- Make sure your workspace is safe, clean, and meets all the necessary standards
You Can Handle This!
Filing a Public Liability Insurance claim can actually be pretty straightforward. So, what’s the secret? It’s all about speed, keeping things documented, and working together.
If you’re unsure, just give us a call and ask away. We’re here to help you out with it. Because the best kind of protection is the one that really does its job when you need it.
“I wholehearted recommend Westminster Insurance. Efficient, professional, friendly, helpful and offer a highly competitive.”
The information provided in this article is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. This content is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice, endorsement, or recommendation of any particular course, treatment, service, or product. Readers should always seek appropriate professional advice and check the latest policy documents and terms before making any decisions or commitments.
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