Claim Dispute...

[Akakpo]

Hi all, Insurance company has authorised a claim for a Sony laptop which was purcahsed about 2 yrs ago. Insurance company wants to replace the Sony laptop with a Toshiba which doesn't have all the features that the Sony has. They will pay 400 quid for something that I paid 1250 for because of depreciation. I've asked them to source one out with the same features and ship it out to me as I do not know of a place where I can get a laptop with all those features for 400. They claim they only send out high street vouchers.

My Question now is..

1. Are they not oblige to replace it with the same make?
2. How are these depreciations calculated?
3. I am not willing to accept the 400quid voucher for the reason mentioned. Who do I escalate this to?

[another-view]

A laptop that cost 1250 2 years ago is probably worth 400 now. I doubt you will find one with the same specs as 2 years ago as things move very quickly with laptops and computers. Put the 400 towards a new one.

[wilkesneil]

look at your policy to see if you have old for new replacements
if so they are legally obliged to get you the equivalant of the new model of your 2 year old laptop.
i would tell them what i needed really on the laptop which i paid all that money for and refuse anything you may need to upgrade in the future, tell them you dont mind a cheaper equivalant as long as its got the functions and the minimum specs you require for your everyday computing needs.

[woozer]

If your policy provides new for old cover then your insurers can replace the item or offer you funds/vouchers at their discretion. I do not think you can insist on the same make unless there is some particular reason e.g. compatibilitywith other equipment etc. They must, however, offer you either an item with at least the same functions or better (if better they may ask you for a contribution for the betterment) - otherwise they must offer you sufficient to purchase an item with the same functions.
Ask them where they have got the like for like quote that came out at £400.00. They dont have to give you £1250 if technology has moved on and the items in the market place now retail more cheaply than they did when you bought your original lap top.

If you cannot resolve this then your 1st step is to write a recorded delivery of complaint to your insurer. If they do not respond in a reasonable and timely manner you can then escalate this to the insurance ombudsman.