Client Categories: Risk Managers

Rebuilding a community icon

Expert in this field


In July 2012, lightening struck Egypt Hall, causing a fire which devastated the community building at the heart of the small hamlet of Georgina on the southern shores of Lake Simcoe. The hall was owned by the town and served as a focal point and venue for gatherings and parties. Cunningham Lindsey’s executive general agent Rick Bahen was immediately called in to advise the insured on the loss.

  • The Challenge:

    A review of the original building plans revealed that the building – constructed by a team of volunteers in 1989 – failed to meet current building standards. The Hall Board and Community members wanted their new hall to have all the character and amenities of the original building but were aware that as a public space, it was critical the new structure met modern building codes.

  • The Solution:

    Contractors and tradesmen involved in the rebuild were all local to the area and understood the importance of retaining the integrity of the original hall in their rebuild. This included sourcing bricks that were identical to those used on the first structure. Eighteen months after the fire the new hall was complete, stronger and more resilient, but with the same character of the first Egypt Hall.

Finding proof of fraud, where little evidence exists


Overview
Expert in this field


Alarm bells rang when a fire occurred at a warehouse owned by a business that supplied advanced technological components. While the business did not appear to be in difficulty, arson was suspected.

The total material damage and business interruption claim was estimated at more than £1,000,000, including damaged stock totalling more than £350,000.

On the basis of the forensic fire analysis, detailed field work by our fraud investigator and financial analysis by our forensic accountant, the cumulative weight of evidence was enough for the insurer to deny liability on the basis of arson and insurance fraud.


  • The Challenge:

    A “high-level” review indicated the business was generally sound, however a fire expert concluded the blaze had been deliberate.

  • The Solution:

    A detailed investigation including witness statements, fire analysis and forensic accounting uncovered both a motive (the desire by owners to change the business model) and strong evidence for arson.

2015 Australian storms and floods


Overview
Expert in this field


A spate of hailstorms and cyclones caused widespread damage throughout New South Wales and Queensland during the early part of 2015, with claims reaching US$1.5bn

We worked closely with insurers and brokers to make sure policyholders received the best possible service.

We quickly mobilised local teams including technical loss adjusters, restorers, building consultants, engineers and forensic accountants to provide immediate assistance, with our 24/7 Customer Services Centre in Wollongong ensuring priority was given to the worst-affected customers.


  • The Challenge:

    After a succession of natural catastrophes, including hail storms, cyclones and floods, the damage ranged from minor water damage of homes through to total commercial building collapse and business interruption. In total, the industry received over 170,000 claims that it needed to assess and process as quickly as possible.

  • The Solution:

    Cunningham Lindsey stepped up its response, establishing Catastrophe Management Offices for each event, setting up Customer Care Teams in Melbourne, Parramatta, Adelaide and Brisbane and bringing in 20 experts from the UK, New Zealand and US, experienced in the complexities of severe storm losses, to support local teams.

Tianjin Explosions

Overview
Expert in this field


On 12 August 2015 two massive explosions occurred at the Port of Tianjin, China, killing over 150 people. The disaster is one of the largest and most complex man-made losses to occur in the region.

The blast affected a 3km radius, leaving a massive crater, destroying warehouses and incinerating thousands of cars and shipping containers.

Total claims could reach $3.3bn, excluding losses from business interruption and supply chain interruption.

Cunningham Lindsey took immediate steps to mobilise its local team, led by China manager John Law. An additional 30 experts were drafted in from other offices to assist.


We responded to the explosion in Tianjin rapidly... it gave us a chance to shine and to get our customers back on their feet

Jane Tutoki

Cunningham Lindsey

Global CEO

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  • The Challenge:

    Concerns by authorities that toxic chemicals had been dispersed by the blast, in particular sodium cyanide, meant access to the site was severely restricted in the immediate aftermath.

  • The Solution:

    The Cunningham Lindsey team worked closely with brokers and insurers to make use of satellite imagery and drone footage in order to gather information, carry out initial loss assessments and keep clients informed during this period.