Clarify what each option means for your claim
An insurer may propose arranging repairs or paying a cash settlement, depending on the policy and circumstances. Ask for the offer and the repair scope in writing so you can compare what is included. Premier cannot decide which settlement is right for you or confirm the cover.
The Financial Ombudsman Service explains that, where an insurer can arrange repairs but the customer asks for cash, the settlement may reflect the insurer’s own repair cost. Do not assume it will match every independently obtained quotation.
Questions before accepting an offer
- Which damaged areas, materials and finishes are included in the settlement or repair scope?
- How are the excess, VAT, investigation, access and any necessary drying treated?
- What happens if concealed damage is discovered after work starts?
- Who arranges and pays the contractor, and when are payments due?
- Does accepting the offer settle all parts of the claim, or are any elements still open?
- Who handles a concern about the work and what written terms apply?
Compare like-for-like repair scopes
A quotation is useful when it identifies the actual work rather than only a total. Check preparation, replacement materials, decoration, exclusions and any dependencies on other contractors. Clarify whether a proposed change is reinstatement or an improvement you would fund separately.
If you ask Premier to quote, send the insurer’s schedule or proposed scope and explain which costs or decisions still need agreement. We need the property details and access information to discuss the next stage.
Authorise the repair separately
Receiving money or forwarding an insurer’s email does not automatically instruct Premier. Confirm the quotation, scope, person responsible for payment and authority to proceed. An initial enquiry is not a booked visit.
Read our insurance reinstatement service and the guide to contractor choice. For uncertainty about the policy or settlement, ask your insurer or an appropriately qualified adviser.