Claims Handling for Design Professionals
As your agent, we help make sure your claims are handled to your satisfaction.
What to Do If You Have a Claim
Claims handling is the most important function of the insurance policy and leaves a lasting impression on the policyholder. If at any time during the claim process you have questions or become frustrated, don't hesitate to reach out to our professionals. Our job is to ensure your claims are handled to your satisfaction.
How to Report a Professional Liability Insurance Claim
- Notify your professional liability insurance company as specified in your policy, and/or
- Notify your AP Design Professionals representative
When to Report a Professional Liability Claim
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Professional liability insurance is a “claims made policy”. The policy that covers the claim is the policy that is in force at the time the claim is made. This is not necessarily when the work was done or when the damage occurred.
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You must look at your policy for its specific definition of a claim, but usually it is a “demand” for money or services, or service of the suit or demand for arbitration. A “demand” can be written or oral. If you receive a demand, report it as a claim ASAP.
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Most policies allow you to report “circumstances” that may reasonably give rise to a claim. Reporting a circumstance to your insurance company is a good practice. They can often help you avoid or resolve potential claims. Also, annual renewal applications ask if you are aware of any “circumstances”. To answer this question in good faith you need to report “circumstances” to your insurance company.
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If ever you change insurance companies, you must report all claims and “circumstances” to your current company before the change. Notice must be made within the required notice period of the policy. Failure to do so can result in the loss of coverage for any claims arising from a claim or “circumstance”.
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If you have a question as to whether to report a claim, please contact your AP Design Professionals representative.
How to Report a Claims on other Coverages: General Liability, Automobile, Workers’ Compensation, Property, Executive or Cyber Risk
- Notify your insurance company as specified in your policy.
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