Count on abroker for top payout; Cash point.

Byline: TRICIA PHILLIPS 

USING an insurance broker could boost your claim payout by a fifth.

Or at least that's what trade body the British Insurance Brokers' Association says anyway.

Dealing with insurers can be difficult as people get bamboozled by red tape and the questions big firms often fling at victims when making claims.

But a broker can deal with any potential hurdles and help people get better results.

Biba says nine out of 10 brokers have got increased payments, or have overturned a claim rejection.

One insurer initially offered pounds 6,500 after a house fire, but a broker got that increased to pounds 30,000.

Another coughed up pounds 20,000 for water damage they initially rejected as non valid. During the recession even brokers have had to fight harder to get insurers to pay out.

Eric Galbraith of Biba says: "Insurers are currently tightening their belts and scrutinising claims and policy wording.

"Many consumers don't have the experience or knowledge to negotiate claims. Brokers know how to gather evidence and support negotiations through their understanding of policy wordings, relevant case law and their relationship with insurers."

While it's Biba's job to promote brokers, the fact is they can help you get the right cover in the first place and deal with problems with claims.

Find your nearest Biba broker at biba.org.uk or call 0870 950 1790.