Insurance company Aviva has rejected evidence presented by James Hallam Insurance Brokers supporting Covid-19-related business interruption insurance claims from CSP and Physio First members.
Lawyers instructed by James Hallam (formerly Graybrook Hallam) had assembled and submitted facts to support members' previously rejected claims, following a positive Supreme Court judgment in January.
Reflecting recent legal advice, CSP and Physio First are still confident that their original guidance, given to members during the first lockdown, around stopping non-essential face-to-face services was correct.
Aviva disagrees with that interpretation of government's guidance and is refusing to reconsider claims already declined.
CSP and Physio First will be working with James Hallam to identify a number of representative cases to take to the Financial Ombudsman Service, the only regulatory body able to overturn the decision.
In the meantime, policy-holders will be informed directly by Aviva of their decision.
Members affected by the decision are urged to follow Aviva's official complaints process. James Hallam will be providing them with guidance on how and when to submit a complaint.
Natalie Beswetherick, CSP director of practice and development said:
'The CSP, on behalf of our members in the independent sector, is bitterly disappointed by Aviva’s decision in this matter.
We will fight this decision, starting with the preparation of a class action case to be presented to the Financial Ombudsman Service. We will keep members informed of progress on a regular basis
Members who have policies with other insurers and have outstanding questions about their claim or cover should speak directly with their own broker.
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