Specialty Insurance
Detailed analysis of specialist covers, the insured activity and the circumstances of the loss.
Specialty insurance disputes are shaped by the particular business, asset or activity insured. We advise on the interpretation and application of specialist policies, with attention to the conditions on which the risk was accepted, the chain of events giving rise to the claim and the commercial context in which cover is sought.
- Specialist policy wording
- Jewellers’ block
- Marine and aviation
- Evidence and valuation
Understanding the insured risk
We examine the proposal and policy documentation, the insured’s operations and the relevant contractual relationships. The analysis addresses what was insured, where and when cover applies, and whether the alleged loss falls within the operative provisions. Particular attention is given to endorsements, territorial provisions and requirements relating to custody, security, handling or use.
An investigation directed by the legal issues
Technical material is most useful when it answers a question that matters to coverage or liability. We identify the records and specialist input needed to test competing explanations of the loss, distinguish established facts from assumptions and assess the reliability of the claimed valuation. Where several parties handled an asset or performed a relevant service, the investigation also considers the allocation of responsibility.
Defence, settlement and recovery
Our advice brings together policy response, causation, quantum and the prospects of recovery from third parties. We assess how evidential gaps and litigation costs affect the available options and explain the matters requiring further instructions. Dedicated practice pages set out our approach to jewellers’ block and to marine and aviation insurance disputes.