Insurance is something most of us hope we never need to use. We arrange cover, pay the premiums and get on with life, trusting that if something goes wrong, our policy will be there to help.

But the true value of insurance is often only understood at claim time.

A fire, storm, theft, accident, business interruption or major property loss can turn life upside down in an instant. Suddenly, you are not only dealing with the emotional and practical consequences of what has happened, but also trying to understand policy wording, gather evidence, complete documentation and navigate the claims process.

This is where the support of a general insurance broker or adviser can make an enormous difference.

Advice starts long before the claim

A successful claim experience often begins when the insurance policy is first arranged.

A general insurance broker or adviser can help identify the risks you face, understand what needs to be protected and select insurance that is appropriate for your circumstances. Just as importantly, an adviser can help explain exclusions, limits, excesses and other conditions that may affect a future claim.

Price will always be an important consideration, but insurance should never be viewed on price alone.

The cheapest policy may not necessarily provide the protection you expect when something goes wrong. Understanding what you are insured for — and what you are not insured for — is an important part of making an informed decision.

Regular reviews are equally important. Businesses grow, properties are renovated, equipment is replaced and asset values change. If your insurance has not kept pace, you may discover at claim time that your level of cover is no longer appropriate.

Then something happens

When a claim occurs, emotions can run high.

You may be trying to organise emergency repairs, secure a building, replace essential equipment or find temporary accommodation. A business owner may also be concerned about employees, customers, lost income and how quickly operations can resume.

At this point, having someone who understands your insurance policy and the claims process can be invaluable.

Rather than trying to work everything out yourself, your adviser can help explain the next steps, assist with the information required by the insurer and act as an important point of contact throughout the process.

Someone in your corner

Claims can range from relatively straightforward to extremely complex.

There may be assessors, builders, repairers, loss adjusters and insurers involved. Additional information may be requested, quotes may need to be obtained and questions can arise about the extent of damage or the application of different sections of the policy.

An experienced general insurance broker or adviser can help you understand these conversations.

They can assist with communicating with the insurer, provide guidance around documentation and help ensure important information relating to the claim is properly presented.

Perhaps most importantly, they can be there when you have questions.

When you are dealing with an already stressful event, simply having an experienced person you know and trust at the end of the phone can provide significant reassurance.

Claims support is where relationships matter

Insurance advice should not end when the policy is issued.

A quality insurance relationship continues through annual reviews, changing circumstances and, ultimately, the moment you need your insurance most.

That is why claims support can be one of the most valuable services a General Insurance Adviser provides.

Good insurance advice helps you put the right protection in place. Good claims support helps you navigate what happens next.

Because insurance isn’t simply about buying a policy.

It’s about protecting your home, your business, your assets and your financial future — and having someone beside you when things don’t go according to plan.

Advice is paramount when arranging your cover, but when the unexpected happens, claims support can make all the difference.

If this article has inspired you to think about your unique situation and, more importantly, what you and your family are going through right now, please get in touch with your advice professional.

This information does not consider any person’s objectives, financial situation, or needs. Before making a decision, you should consider whether it is appropriate in light of your particular objectives, financial situation, or needs.

(Feedsy Exclusive)