Travel insurance claims

Every year a number of business travel insurance claims are rejected by insurers.

Common reasons are:

Failure to disclose pre-exiting medical conditions

Travel insurance companies ask for details of pre-existing conditions at the time of buying or renewing a policy. It is imperative that any conditions are declared.

Party members falling ill

Many people are unaware that their travel insurance policy may not cover additional costs caused by a travelling companion falling ill. Insurance should be arranged to cover all colleagues who are travelling together so that everyone’s costs are covered.

Failure to take reasonable care

Travel claims may be declined if the insurer believes the claimant failed to take reasonable care of their property.  For example, leaving a laptop on a table in an unlocked meeting room.

No police report

Theft victims may see their claim turned down if they neglect to obtain a police report following a robbery or don’t do so within the correct timescales, usually 24 hours.

No permission for insured treatment

Some insurers specify that you must contact a particular 24-hour assistance company prior to obtaining medical treatment abroad. Failure to do so could lead to the insurer declining your claim for those costs.

Should it become necessary to make a claim you will need to check your policy wording to find out exactly what to do next.  There will be a claims procedure to follow and you may need to provide specific documentation for your claim. It is wise to read your policy documents before you leave and ensure you have your policy reference or policy number written down.

Last reviewed 7/11/2011

To talk to an expert in your area and get a quote, contact your local insurance broker.