Here’s Who’s Involved (and How We Help)
Running a business in Tasmania means rolling with the punches—weather events, unexpected hiccups, or even a clumsy courier dropping a crate of stock.
When the time comes to make an insurance claim, it can feel like a maze of paperwork, processes, and people. But understanding who’s actually involved in that process can make things a whole lot easier.
At RSM Tasmania Insurance Brokers, we provide the small business insurance Tasmania needs.
We’ve been helping local businesses with their claims for almost 20 years. So here’s a quick breakdown of the key players you’re likely to encounter when lodging a business insurance claim—plus a few helpful tips to make the process smoother.
1. You—the Policyholder
It all starts with you. Whether it’s property damage, stolen tools, or a cyber event, you’re the one who kicks off the process by contacting us. You’ll usually need to provide details like:
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- What happened (and when)
- Photos or video (if possible)
- Police or incident reports
- Any receipts or valuations
TIP: The faster you report the incident, the faster we can start helping.
2. Your Insurance Broker (That’s Us!)
We act as your advocate in the claims process. That means:
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- We lodge the claim on your behalf
- We speak to the insurer so you don’t have to chase them
- We help prepare any required documentation
- We explain what’s covered and what’s not—no confusing jargon
We’re on your side the whole way through.
3. The Insurance Company (Insurer)
They’re the ones underwriting your policy. Once we submit the claim, the insurer assesses the situation and decides what needs to happen next—whether it’s approving the claim, sending an assessor, or asking for more details.
4. Loss Adjusters & Assessors
These are independent specialists hired by the insurer to look into the damage or loss. For example, if a fire damages your premises, a loss adjuster might come out to inspect and report on the situation. They’ll then provide a recommendation to the insurer.
TIP: It’s worth walking through the damage with them and pointing out anything important.
Your local knowledge matters.
5. Repairers & Suppliers
Once the claim is approved, things can get moving. Depending on your policy, the insurer may appoint their preferred suppliers—or we can help arrange local repairers if you have a preference.
In some cases (especially business interruption or contents claims), you might also deal with:
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- Builders or tradies
- Equipment suppliers
- Clean-up crews
6. Lawyers (Sometimes)
For more complex claims—particularly liability claims involving injury or legal responsibility—lawyers may become involved. But don’t worry, we’ll guide you through every step and explain what’s happening if it gets to that stage.
What About Disputes?
If you’re not happy with how the claim is progressing, we can help escalate the issue. We deal with insurers regularly and know how to push for fair outcomes.
In rare cases, disputes can be referred to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA)—but most are resolved well before that’s needed.
Need Help with a Claim?
Whether it’s your first insurance claim or just the latest in a long line of business curve-balls, RSM Tasmania Insurance Brokers is here to help. We know the local area, we understand small business, and we work for you—not the insurer.
Need help making a claim or reviewing your current cover? Give us a ring and let’s chat.
“The better part of valour is discretion…”
—William Shakespeare
…and knowing who’s who in your insurance claim doesn’t hurt either.
Remember, this article is general in nature and doesn’t take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. For advice tailored to your circumstances, have a chat with us at RSM Tasmania Insurance Brokers Hobart.
Talk to Roger Hosie and stay ahead with RSM Tasmania’s insights.
Call Now! (03) 6244 7854, or email .
