Supreme Court rules on Business Interruption Insurance Policies
The Supreme Court has found in favour of small firms receiving payments from business interruption insurance policies.
The legal process was fast-tracked to the highest court in England and Wales which now says it has “substantially allowed” the appeal brought by the FCA and an action group to clarify the position.
The ruling could cost the insurance sector hundreds of millions of pounds – perhaps as much as £1.2 billion.
In the lockdown of last spring, many small businesses made claims through business interruption insurance policies for loss of earnings when they had to close. But many insurers refused to pay, arguing only the most specialist policies had cover for such unprecedented restrictions.
A selection of policy wordings were tested in court, setting the parameters for what would be considered a valid claim.
The ruling provides guidance for a wider pool of 700 policies, potentially affecting 370,000 small businesses.
EYE has previously reported on the issue as it affects many estate agency businesses.
