By their nature, subsidence matters are some of the most complex claims falling within buildings coverage. Often long-term in manifestation, or short-term, with “violent” outcomes to a building’s structure, the causes of damage can be multiple and hidden. Identifying cause and reparations makes it amongst the most costly claim-cost peril.
It is imperative, therefore, that every claim is dealt with in a manner proportionate to the potential cost and respecting the inherent complexities. This is what David Hession, our Chief Engineer, deals with every day. With a long and respected engineering career, much of which has centred around subsidence, he has a genuinely expert knowledge of his subject.
No shortcuts are taken, full orchestration of the claims forensics are considered and proportionate reparations undertaken.
Quite literally, these claims have many moving parts. Not paying due regard to each of them and their effects upon the whole claim will lead to a settlement of the matter in a non-robust nor proportionate manner – like conducting an orchestra playing out of time or key. David likens his role at Quadra to that of an orchestra conductor, keeping everyone in tune and in time.
With a period of relative quietness in the volumes of subsidence claims, much has been forgotten of the investigation techniques unique to the peril and there has been a mindshift to it being seen as just another peril. It most certainly is not and demands specific handling. For this reason, David coordinates his work via our Quadrassist service. Having this centrally pooled resource, which is carefully vetted and driven by a due-diligence process that ensures a high bar is maintained, means any claim, especially subsidence, can be dealt with to achieve the best and permanent outcome to the claim.
In his words; there are no shortcuts to how these claims need to be handled. Each requires its own consideration, proper investigation of all causes that are contributing to the loss manifestation and, more importantly, a full understanding of exactly how each component needs to be dealt with to bring about the right solution.
Hence the long game, no shortcuts are taken, full orchestration of the claims forensics are considered and proportionate reparations undertaken. As a measure of this approach, Quadra can demonstrate a significantly higher proportion of claims that are ultimately concluded not to be by an insured peril, and for those that are, that the level of reparation and cost is the right one. Something we underwrite with our own guarantee. Like the rest of our business, there is no commoditised process here, rather our customary per-claim approach, where every matter is dealt with on its own merits.
Want to understand more about our approach to subsidence claims? Click here to get in touch. David and his team would love to speak to you.
