Downgraded after a claim? How to limit the damage
A small claim, and suddenly you pay more for years because the insurer downgraded you into a worse no-claims class (SF)? This upgrade can be more expensive than the claim itself. There are ways to limit that.
Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:
Check the downgrade →Your chances of getting your money back
What you should do now
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1. Calculate the extra costs
Have the premium difference over the years of re-ascent named and add it up.
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2. Compare with the claim
If the sum is higher than the settled claim, the buy-back is worthwhile.
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3. Declare the buy-back
Tell the insurer on time that you are buying back the claim (ask for the deadline).
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4. Check no-claims protection
If you agreed no-claims protection, the SF class may be retained despite a claim.
Frequently asked questions
Can I reverse a downgrade?
Often yes, through a 'claim buy-back': you reimburse the insurer the claim amount it paid, then the downgrade is reversed. This is worthwhile if the extra premiums accruing over several years are higher than the claim. Ask about the deadline and the exact sum.
What is no-claims protection?
An agreed additional benefit under which one claim per year does not lead to a downgrade; your no-claims class is retained. Check your policy for whether you have it. Without no-claims protection, the claim buy-back helps avoid an expensive upgrade.
Take action now
We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.
General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.