My car was stolen two months ago but the insurer is refusing to pay in case it is found?

My car was stolen and the insurance company accept it was a professional theft (non-keyless car taken without keys), however, they refuse to pay out after two months 'in case the car is found'. The police said it is unlikely to be recovered. I have an insurance renewal and the insurance company have done the following - 1. tripled the premium, 2. endorsed the policy - excess up from £150 to £650, 3. increased NCD protection charge from £30 to £260.

This was the first claim in 13 years of driving and have no convictions no points - however, I now have no car, no insurance payout and unaffordable insurance. What can I do?

Asked on 15 January 2019 by Robert Ingle

Answered by Honest John

They cannot refuse to payout "in case the car is found". Raise a complaint, contact the Financial Ombudsman Service (www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk/consumer/complaints...m). I would expect an insurer to pay out after a month has passed. Though the regulations advise they have three months to make a "reasoned offer of settlement". I would also be advising them that even if the vehicle is recovered it will be a total loss, as they will be unaware of what latent damage may be in the drivetrain. Second issue, simple - change insurer.

Tags: stolen cars insurance insurance companies financial ombudsman service

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