Marks & Spencer Insurance

Perhaps not the most relevant review to all those trying to improve your performance or spend your money on the latest bling, however all those things are irrelevant if anything happens to your bike(s).

I had the misfortune to have all 4 of my bikes stolen from my garage earlier in the year and the saving grace was that they were insured by Marks & Spencer home contents insurance.  I originally chose this insurance due to the good reputation and because they offered a competitive price even though I had specified an expensive bike on the policy.

Following the police report and review the insurance claim was relatively straightforward, the claim was made by telephone and I was visited by a loss adjuster to inspect the damage and provide a report.  The loss adjuster paid particular attention to all security fitments.  Following his visit I was requested to provide all receipts, pictures and proof of ownership documents.  Fortunately I hoard receipts and this practice undoubtedly saved my skin.  I could pretty much provide a receipt for every single item on all 4 bikes.

The final stage involved the loss adjuster determining quotes from external sources which much to my frustration took over 2 months.  A telephone call a day provided enough impetus to settle.

The best part of this policy was that despite only naming one bike on the policy there were no limits on the other bikes despite not being individually named.  I shall be renewing my policy for 2011.

Score: Runner Up

Reviewed by Niall Frost

Top insurance tips

1. Keep all receipts and if possible a folder for each bike is not anal, it's practical!

2. Record all serial numbers and consider getting datatag.

3. Take pictures of you with your bikes to help prove ownership.

4. Be nice to your local bike shop at all times, as you never know when you might require their help.

5. Consider your current security situation carefully to avoid ever having a claim.  Any loss adjuster will want to see your security provisions also.

6. If you are not happy with the level of service, ask to speak to a manager or (as I did) phone every day for updates.

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