Riot’s in the UK – August 2024
The recent protests around the UK, have caused significant damage, with the media reporting buildings and property that have been set on fire and maliciously damaged. In the coming days/weeks, it is likely that the individual businesses/persons who have suffered damage will be presenting claims under their policy of insurance. Unfortunately, there will be no direct recovery opportunity, as its either likely that the persons causing the damage are unidentified, or criminal proceedings take precedence. It is unlikely that they will ever meet any judgement.
There is another route to try and recover insurers outlay, but it is very important that loss adjusters and claims handlers act quickly.
What is a Riot?
A Riot is defined by Section 1 of the Public Order Act 1986. This that a Riot is defined as a gathering of 12 or more people, who use, or threated to use unlawful violence and who cause a reasonable person to fear for their personal safety.
The Riot Compensation Act 2016 (“RCA”)
The RCA governs the compensation for damage caused as a direct result of riots. To qualify for compensation, it must be demonstrated to the claims authority that the damage caused was as a direct result of a riot.
What can you claim for?
- Payments for property damage.
- Alternative accommodation, under certain circumstances, but there are limits
Unfortunately you cannot claim for consequential loss, such as business interruption.
If damage has been caused to a property, following the protests seen over the last week in the UK, and a claim is being presented, if the definition of a Riot can be met, then insurers can
make a claim for re-imbursement under the RCA.
There are tight deadlines when claiming, therefore it is important that action is taken immediately to start the process.
For more information please contact us.