Marine
When an Insurer's Quick Fix Isn't Enough
$5,000 assessment became a $68,000 settlement
The challenge
A client struck a submerged log at speed while returning to the marina in their high-value launch. The insurer's assessor concluded there was “no apparent hull damage” and proposed a minimal repair - stripping and recoating antifoul and a propeller realignment - placing the initial settlement at about $5,000.
Our approach
We pushed back and insisted on a specialist inspection. After tense negotiations the insurer approved a local marine engineer to examine the vessel, and we attended the inspection. The specialist identified clear impact damage: hull deformation, both propellers bent and shafts compromised, worn cutlass bearings, potential gearbox issues, and extensive internal damage to electronics and fittings.
The outcome
The vessel required two months out of the water for comprehensive hull, running-gear and internal repairs. The total claim value was $68,000 - a substantial increase over the insurer's original assessment.
The takeaway
When it matters, you need an experienced insurance advocate on your side. Without a thorough investigation and specialist input, the insurer's quick fix would have left the client badly short.