Freezer Malfunction

[Caran]

Phoned insurance company today. Spoke to very sympathetic lady. So helpful.
Asked me roughly what was the value of the food that was lost. I said about £200. Oh dear how upsetting for you she said. Are you aware you have a £250 excess on your policy?
Not a lot I can do about that now!

[Caran]

Palustris I really feel for you, I felt devastated but you must be even worse.

[RSDonovan]

I've come to the conclusion that, except for Car, House and Travel outside Europe, Insurance is a complete con and waste of time and money, as you have unfortunately found out to your cost.

Insurance companies are awash with money, as they are very pleased to accept the premiums, but loathe to pay out for claims; either the fault or damage is "not covered", or as you found, the excess is ridiculous!

Even had the excess been lower, you would have found that your premium would have been loaded next year. even if you had exchanged insurer, since they all share information.

What's even worse are the "extended warranties" sold in shops for low value items (computers down to pocket radios). The shop staff often try a hard sell since they earn half the premium in commission (i.e. half your dosh down the pan straight away!). You really don't need extended warranties. You normally have a year's free warranty anyway, and I've found that if something lasts a year, it will go on for another year or five. Electrical goods especially are far more reliable than they were years ago, but even if they do go pop after a year, you can get a more advanced replacement with the money you've saved in insurance premiums.

Sorry you lost out Caran, but hope you won't renew any of your policies and you'll soon get the money back!

Add up all the premiums that you've paid and subtract the money you've received in claims over the last few years and I bet that 99% of people wish they'd never bothered!