On 10 October 2014, while the Lowestoft-based shop was trading, a fire began in the extraction ducting of the frying range.

The fire seriously damaged the stainless steel range and extraction ducting. Damage extended to other equipment such as fridges, freezers, microwave ovens and menu boards and stock was also affected and the ceiling, electrics, tiling, flooring and decorations all now required repair.

Thompson & Bryan was appointed to deal with the claim on behalf of the insured, via the DAS Loss Assist scheme.

We knew insurers placed strict requirements on policyholders for this type of risk. They insist the frying range is cleaned and maintained regularly. This also applied to extraction ducts, which also needed inspection by an independent contractor. Failure to comply could result in liability being denied.

We obtained copies of all cleaning and maintenance certificates and when the loss adjuster attended, were able to produce these to show the policyholder had complied. This ensured liability was swiftly accepted.

Quotes were obtained for the main equipment and approved by the loss adjuster, and a new frying range was fitted before Christmas. Interim business interruption payments were also made.

We kept in close contact with the insurance broker and provided them with regular updates. This enabled the broker to make separate representations directly to insurers in support of the policyholder.

The importance of providing evidence that the requirements of the policy is extremely important and when insurers knew every precaution was taken, there were no queries regarding liability.

On 10 October 2014, while the Lowestoft-based shop was trading, a fire began in the extraction ducting of the frying range.

The fire seriously damaged the stainless steel range and extraction ducting. Damage extended to other equipment such as fridges, freezers, microwave ovens and menu boards and stock was also affected and the ceiling, electrics, tiling, flooring and decorations all now required repair.

Thompson & Bryan was appointed to deal with the claim on behalf of the insured, via the DAS Loss Assist scheme.

We knew insurers placed strict requirements on policyholders for this type of risk. They insist the frying range is cleaned and maintained regularly. This also applied to extraction ducts, which also needed inspection by an independent contractor. Failure to comply could result in liability being denied.

We obtained copies of all cleaning and maintenance certificates and when the loss adjuster attended, were able to produce these to show the policyholder had complied. This ensured liability was swiftly accepted.

Quotes were obtained for the main equipment and approved by the loss adjuster, and a new frying range was fitted before Christmas. Interim business interruption payments were also made.

We kept in close contact with the insurance broker and provided them with regular updates. This enabled the broker to make separate representations directly to insurers in support of the policyholder.

The importance of providing evidence that the requirements of the policy is extremely important and when insurers knew every precaution was taken, there were no queries regarding liability.