Can I claim compensation for a lost marriage certificate?

[broom30]

My bank insisted on an orginal marriage certificate when I wanted them to change my surname after getting married. They also asked me to write my account no`s on the back of it. After 2 phone calls and 2 letters asking for it`s return they have finally admitted that they have lost it. (They ignored my calls and first letter). They are offerning to reimburse the cost of a replacement (but only with a receipt) which is �3.50, but I believe I should get compensation for my time, writing letters, inconvienience etc. Am I right? If so how much should I ask for? I am also very concerned about the threat to my security as there is a lot of my information gone missing.

[tigersam258]

theres nothing to stop you claiming compensation and I would imagine that the bank would have security foremost in their thoughts in this scenario. contact them again, asking for compensation due to time spent calling or writing letters, and make the note that you are copying in the banking ombudsman and maybe Watchdog. This will get thir attention and should get the consideration necessary.

[kira000]

If you are concerned about the loss of personal data and fraud (as you rightly should be!), i would strongly recommend doing one or both of the following, 1) writing a letter to each of he major credit reference agencies stating that personal data has been lost including bank details and personal information and asking them to ckeep this on file and contact you/make checks before granting any credit references.
or 2) sign up with the credit reference agencies who will for a small monthly fee, contact you of anyone makes anychanges to your file, or applies for any credit. That way you can be sure no one is using the info for nefarious purposes.

[bushbaby_de]

I really wouldn't worry about it too much. After all every cheque you ever write has your full name and bank account number on it and anyone in the world could purchase a copy of your marriage certificate from the registrar's office if they so wished. I have seem similar instances of misadministration where �20 or �50 has been offered as a good will gesture but strictly speaking you are only entitled to what you are out of pocket by.