How do I claim on liability insurance in New Zealand?

Six steps: 1) Ensure safety and document the incident with photos, dates and witness details. 2) Notify your insurer or broker as soon as practicable. 3) Do not admit fault or negotiate with the claimant. 4) Complete the claim form with supporting documentation. 5) Cooperate fully with any loss assessor or investigator. 6) The insurer manages the claim through to settlement, mediation or court — legal defence costs are usually included.

How long do I have to notify a liability claim?

Most NZ policies require notification 'as soon as reasonably practicable'. Late notification can affect cover, particularly on claims-made PI policies where the claim must be notified within the policy period. Notify your insurer or broker immediately even if you are unsure whether a claim will eventuate.

Should I admit fault at the scene?

No. Admitting fault, signing waivers or negotiating with a claimant can prejudice your insurer's ability to defend the claim and may void cover. Take details, express concern, but defer any liability assessment to the insurer.

All answers / How to claim

How to claim on liability insurance in New Zealand

Six steps: document the incident, notify your insurer as soon as practicable, do not admit fault or negotiate with the claimant, complete the claim form, cooperate with any assessor, and let the insurer manage the claim through to settlement. Legal defence costs are covered under the policy, separately from compensation.

Step-by-step

Ensure safety and document

Make sure everyone is safe. Take photos of the scene, note the date, time, location and circumstances. Collect contact details of any witnesses. Do not admit fault or sign anything.

Notify your insurer or broker

Contact your insurer or broker as soon as practicable. Most policies have a notification timeframe — late notification can affect cover. On claims-made PI policies, the claim must be notified within the policy period.

Do not engage with the claimant

Refer all communication to your insurer. Do not admit liability, offer settlement, or negotiate compensation. Do not respond to demand letters without insurer guidance.

Complete the claim form

Your insurer will provide a claim form. Fill it out accurately and completely. Attach photos, witness statements, invoices, any correspondence received from the claimant or their lawyer.

Cooperate with the investigation

Your insurer may appoint a loss assessor or investigator. Cooperate fully — provide any additional information they request. Your insurer manages all communication with the claimant from here.

Resolution and settlement

Your insurer will manage the claim through to resolution — negotiated settlement, mediation or court proceedings. Legal defence costs are covered under the policy, separately from any compensation paid.

Common mistakes

Delayed notification. Particularly fatal on claims-made PI policies.
Admitting fault at the scene. Even informal "I'm so sorry, this is on me" can be cited against you.
Paying the claimant directly. Voids the insurer's right to defend and may void cover.
Repairing or destroying evidence. Preserve the scene where reasonable; insurer may want to inspect.

Related guides

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