This article covers general insurance claims.
If you need to make a claim for health insurance, life insurance, critical illness or income protection, contact your insurer to find out exactly what you need to do.
If you’ve had something stolen or vandalised, the first step is to call the police. They'll give you a crime reference number to give to your insurer.
Your policy may have a time limit to report a crime. Others ask you to do it as soon as reasonably possible. The sooner you report it, the better.
If you become ill while abroad or if there’s an emergency at home, contact your insurer for on-the-spot advice.
Most operate 24-hour claims lines and will tell you what you need to do next. If you don’t have their number to hand, you’ll be able to find it on their website.
If you have an HSBC policy, you can find the claims numbers below:
The more evidence you have, the more straightforward your claim should be. Make notes of dates and times and the details of what happened. Take photos or videos of any damage. Make lists of any stolen items. Ask for and keep hold of the details of anyone else involved.
If it’s not an emergency, you may want to review your policy documents before calling your insurer. This allows you to check if there’s an excess to pay and understand the necessary procedures.
For example, some car and home insurance policies specify that approved companies need to do the repairs. Some insurers may even arrange the repairs for you.
If you can’t find your policy documents, don’t worry. Your insurer should be able to identify you from your address and tell you if you have a valid claim.
Contact your insurer as soon as possible – even if you don’t yet know the full extent of the damage or loss. Your policy might have a time limit for making claims. Even if it hasn’t, it’s best to make your claim while the information is fresh in your mind.
With some policies, like our home insurance, you can make your claim online. If you’re claiming by phone, make sure you’ve got all the details to hand before you call, including:
For most types of claims, your insurer will take the details over the phone or online – although some may ask you to fill in a form.
When it comes to making your insurance claim, be clear about what happened and what you'd like replacing or how much money you’re claiming for.
In many cases, the insurer will take you at your word. However, you may be asked for proof of the loss or damage or evidence that you own the items you’re claiming for.
Don't overstate the value of the loss or damage as this could lead to your claim being rejected.
Any time you have a phone call with your insurer or anyone else related to the claim, make notes about what they say and record the time and date. Keep copies of all emails and letters you’ve received and sent. This can help you recall events later.
Straightforward claims can be resolved and paid out within days. Complex claims may take longer. Once you’ve reported all the relevant information to your insurer, they should be able to tell you how long it will take.
