FAQ

You should report a claim as soon as possible after the incident. In some cases, a delay could jeopardize coverage under your policy. It is also generally prudent to file a Notice of Claim where there is the potential for a claim to arise in the future. We recommend that you work with your agent/broker to facilitate the claim notification process. We are also here to help.

Once the claim is received, it will be assigned to an adjuster.  The assigned the adjuster will reach out to you promptly following receipt of the claim and provide you with an acknowledgement letter, which will include a claim number that you can use to identify your claim when reaching out to us. The acknowledgment letter will also include the adjuster’s direct contact information. Should you require assistance at any time, you may also reach us through our general email,  claims@westcongress.com, or via phone at +1.888.552.4156, Option #2 or 1+313.782.4156, Option #2.

The deductible is your minimum share of any loss.  The deductible amount is established at the beginning of the policy period as part of the quoting, binding, and issuance process. Deductible amounts may vary from policy to policy and may change from year to year.  You should work closely with your agent/broker during the quoting and binding process to determine a deductible that is appropriate for you based on the size and scope of the business, your financial wherewithal, and your appetite for risk. During handling of the claim or soon after the claim resolves, you will receive an invoice seeking reimbursement of your policy deductible. The deductible amount is due for any claim-related expenses (e.g., independent adjusters, experts, legal fees, travel expenses, etc.) and for indemnity (settlement) payments up to the amount chosen. In addition to the policy deductible, there may be non-covered costs or claims which become the responsibility of the policyholder. 

Upon receiving your claim, your adjuster will evaluate the claim and the coverage provided under your policy to determine whether and/or to what extent that your claim is covered by your policy.  The adjuster will explain the coverage determination to you as it applies to your specific claim. It may be that your claim is fully covered, partially covered, or not covered at all. Even if no coverage or limited coverage is afforded under the policy, your adjuster may be able to provide information to guide you towards your next steps. Also, even if coverage may not be afforded or is limited, you may still be entitled to a defense under the policy. For this reason, it is important that you report all potential claims. Again, we recommend that you work with your agent/broker to facilitate the claims reporting process.

Insurance fraud can take many forms. If you suspect that you are the victim of insurance fraud, you should immediately report the loss to WestCongress and advise the assigned adjuster of your suspicions. WestCongress has established guidelines to investigate fraud allegations. Our Special Investigations Unit will complete any necessary investigation and file reporting with the appropriate state fraud bureau, if indicated. You may also report fraud through the department of insurance in the applicable state. https://insurancefraud.org/report-fraud/