Directline Life Insurance: Get Life insurance cover

Direct Line was the insurance company which pioneered the use of the telephone to provide customers with the facility to purchase insurance over the telephone quickly and simply. The same principle applies with life assurance only it's even easier! You can now obtain an initial quote online and go ahead with a full application, which may allow us to offer you immediate cover. Alternatively, if you prefer, everything can be done over the telephone - just call us on 0845 246 8080*.
In some instances we may require a simple medical report or simple medical examination. However, we try to make that as convenient and as easy for you by arranging appointments to suit you at your convenience. In most cases this can even be carried out within the comfort of your own home. Further, should you require such a medical, free accidental death cover will be put in place for you in order to allow the time for the medical process to be carried out.

Online

Simply click Get a Quote and you will be taken directly to our buy online screens. All you are required to do is answer a few simple lifestyle questions to obtain your quote and if you wish to continue a short medical questionnaire must be completed. This may enable you to be covered online with us immediately assuming you require an immediate start date.

At any time, however you can save your data and follow up with a phone call to us as well - telephone number 0845 246 8080*. By phone If you prefer to speak with one of our operators and obtain your cover over the phone just call - 0845 246 8080* during 8am - 8pm (Monday to Friday) or 9am - 5pm (Saturday). Again the process is as simple as above - answer a few lifestyle questions and if you wish to continue a few medical questions. Again this may enable you to be covered over the phone with us, again assuming an immediate start date. *Calls may be recorded.

Link to previous articles: Directline Life Insurance: How much cover do you need? Direct Line Life Insurance: Types of Covers Direct Line Life Insurance: Overview Direct Line Pet Insurance Claims Process Direct Line Pet Insurance: Summary of cover Direct Line Pet Insurance

Directline Life Insurance: How much cover do you need?

It's tempting to put off any decision about taking out life cover but beware:-

Approximately 1,700 people die everyday in the UK (Source: The Office for National Statistics)
Every year that you delay increases the cost

How much you should take out is also something you must consider. There is not a definitive answer, but you may wish to think about some of the following:

What do you require the life cover for?

Security for your family/partner
Required for your mortgage

There are other considerations which you should then take into account:

• How much is your mortgage?

• What type of mortgage do you have? • What are your general family living expenses? • For how long will your children be dependent on your income and what education commitments might you be required to meet? • If you have other savings what might it earn for family income? You should also allow for a reasonable rate of inflation as life cover is generally a long term purchase. For example compare prices now to ten years ago. It really is up to you, you should consider what income would be required should you die to keep your dependents in the same lifestyle and standard of living as they have now. Also note this will not just be for one year, but possibly a number of years, especially if your children are young.

Link to previous articles: Direct Line Life Insurance: Types of Covers Direct Line Life Insurance: Overview Direct Line Pet Insurance Claims Process Direct Line Pet Insurance: Summary of cover Direct Line Pet Insurance Travel Insurance: Claims information

Directline Life Insurance: Types of Cover

Directline has two types of covers for Life Insurance:

• Fixed Term Life Cover

• Mortgage Life Cover

Fixed Term Life Cover

This is a protection policy that will ensure that a cash lump sum is paid out if death occurs within a specified period of time known as the policy term. The amount of life cover remains fixed throughout the policy term.

Mortgage Life Cover

Unlike the Fixed Term policy, this is a decreasing protection policy where the level of cover reduces each year roughly in line with the outstanding balance on a standard repayment mortgage – hence it is frequently referred to as “mortgage protection”.

Provided the initial sum insured and term are the same as the mortgage at the outset it means that in the event of death the policy should be sufficient to repay the mortgage provided interest rates have not risen above 12% p.a.

General policy information apply to both products

• Minimum age to take out a policy is 18 next birthday

• Maximum age to start a policy is 65 next birthday

• Minimum term is 5 years

• Maximum period of cover is up to age 70 next birthday

• Minimum sum assured
-up to age 40 - £30,000
-over age 40 - £20,000

• Maximum sum assured - £2 million

• The premium is fixed at the outset and remains exactly the same throughout the policy term

• Both pay out in the event of death or on diagnosis of a terminal illness (not to be confused with critical illness), however a terminal illness claim must be notified to us at least 18 months before the end of the policy term

• Both policies can be written in trust if required • Both policies can be taken out on a single life or joint life first death basis • Premium payment is by monthly direct debit only • Once confirmed terms have been offered, this fact can be faxed to your solicitor or lender if a mortgage is involved • There is no surrender value or cash-back at the end of the policy term - it merely expires

Link to previous articles: Direct Line Life Insurance: Overview Direct Line Pet Insurance Claims Process Direct Line Pet Insurance: Summary of cover Direct Line Pet Insurance Travel Insurance: Claims information Direct Line Van Insurance: Legal Protection

Directline Life Insurance

The Directline life insurance good deal that gets even better...

• Get life insurance cover from just 20p a day

• Easy to arrange online or over the phone

• There are no complicated forms to fill in

• We often offer instant cover

• We also offer Critical Illness Cover.

Find out more about our types of cover for Directline Life Insurance

Our fixed term life cover policies will pay out a lump sum to help provide for your loved ones should you die within the term of the policy.

But you can also apply for Life cover with Critical Illness protection, to help protect you and your family if you are diagnosed with a specified critical illness.

Why would I need Directline Life Insurance?

If the unthinkable happened and you were not around, our policies can help make sure that your family's finances will be one less thing to worry about.

Simply choose the level of cover you require, and there will be a lump sum available to help when they need it.

What if I'm already covered? Even if you already have life insurance, it makes sense to carefully review it to make sure you've got the cover you need. You may not have enough cover if your circumstances have changed recently - for instance, if you've just had kids, or moved home. call us on 0845 246 8080. To find out how much you could save on your life insurance...

Link to previous articles: Direct Line Pet Insurance: Missing Pets Bureau Direct Line Pet Insurance Claims Process Direct Line Pet Insurance: Summary of cover Direct Line Pet Insurance Travel Insurance: Claims information Direct Line Van Insurance: Legal Protection

Direct Line Pet Insurance: Missing Pets Bureau

Keep your pet safe with Petback Protect

Direct Line always has something great additionals to offer. So here is something that might be of interest to you, if you buy pet insurance from Directline. If you become a Direct Line pet insurance customer you will be entitled to 1 years FREE Petback Protect membership with the Missing Pets Bureau.

Protection for your pet - reassurance for you...

The Missing Pets Bureau will provide you with a unique pet ID tag and store ALL information needed (address, phone numbers, medical history etc.) to reunite you if your dog or cat strays.

Should your pet be lost or stolen its details (including a colour photo) are immediately transferred into the national missing pets register The Missing Pets Bureau work with 10,000 UK pet care organisations including the RSPCA, Battersea Dogs' Home, rescue centres, vets and animal wardens to ensure that you get your pet back fast The Bureau will contact you immediately, 24 hours a day, when your pet is found. ]Further information about Petback Protect will be sent with your pet insurance policy should you choose to purchase Direct Line pet insurance.

Link to previous articles: Direct Line Pet Insurance Claims Process Direct Line Pet Insurance: Summary of cover Direct Line Pet Insurance Travel Insurance: Claims information Direct Line Van Insurance: Legal Protection Direct Line Van Insurance: New improved Van Insurance

Direct Line Pet Insurance Claims Process

If you need to make a claim, you can be sure we will deal with it quickly and fairly. Wherever possible you must contact us before incurring any costs for which you may wish to claim. If you wish, we can arrange to pay the bills direct to your vet to make things easier for you, providing your vet agrees.

Call: 0845 246 8712

Lines open: 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday

Calls may be recorded

Your step-by-step guide for Pet Insurance Claims Process

- Before you ring us, please have your policy number ready – you will find it at the top of your policy schedule
- One of our friendly Claims Representitives will ask for details of your claim
- We will inform you of the excess and how to continue with the claim
- We may ask you for more information to support your claim
- We will then send you a claim form, and explain what will happen next

Frequently Asked Claims Questions

Q: What kind of details and additional information will I be asked to provide?

Q: What is a Policy Excess?

Q: What services does the Pet Advice Line offer?

Q: How will I know if my claim is covered by my policy?

Q: If my claim is for vet's fees, does the vet need to complete part of the claim form?

Q: Is it possible for my claim to be settled directly with the veterinary practice?

Q: If my pet has a condition which requires ongoing treatment, do I need to wait until the treatment has finished before submitting my claim?

Q: What should I do if my pet is referred on to a Specialist by the vet?

Q: What should I do if I have added Overseas travel cover to my policy?

Q: Will my premium increase if I make a claim?

Q: How long will it take to sort out my claim?

Q: Who will deal with my claim once it has been reported?

Q: What measures do Direct Line take to prevent fraud?

What kind of details and additional information will I be asked to provide?
If you wish to claim for vet's fees, we will ask you for details of the pet you are claiming for, the nature of the illness or injury and when the problem started.


We will also ask you which veterinary practice you will or have already attended and the cost of the treatment, if this is known.

Should your claim not involve vet's fees, we will advise you of the exact information we require during your first call to us.

What is a Policy Excess?
This is the part of the claim that you pay. Our Claims Representive will inform you of the amount of the excess and details can also be found in your policy schedule.

We will deduct the amount of the Policy Excess from the settlement of your claim - in the event that any treatment for your pet is ongoing, we will only apply the excess once at the start of the claim.

What services does the Pet Helpline offer?
Our Pet Helpline offers you access to three pet advice lines - 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Find a vet
- unfortunately a medical emergency can occur at any time. If you are unable to contact your usual vet or if you and your pet are away from home, our advice line is able to assist. We have details of veterinary practices providing cover throughout the UK, and we will be able to provide you with details of a practice near you.

Pet Bereavement Counselling
- it can sometimes be difficult to come to terms with the loss of a much loved pet. We provide a service staffed by professionals offering counselling, advice and support to you.

Legal Advice Line
- the ownership of a pet involves additional responsibilities. Your policy gives you access to practical legal advice on any personal problem, whether it relates to an incident involving your pet or not. Legal professionals are on hand to explain complex legal issues in plain language, and in a helpful and friendly way.

How will I know if my claim is covered by my policy?
Our Claims Advisers are fully trained and have an excellent knowledge of the policy cover you have arranged with us. For claims involving illness or disease, it is likely that we will require detailed information from your veterinary surgeon to determine whether your claim is covered.

It may help you to read through your policy details before ringing us to report your claim.

If my claim is for vet's fees, does the vet need to complete part of the claim form?
Yes - in most cases we will require your veterinary surgeon to complete the reverse side of the claim form.

Is it possible for my claim to be settled directly with the veterinary practice?
Yes, providing that the vet has agreed to this. Please indicate on the space provided on the claim form, should you wish us to do this.

If my pet has a condition which requires ongoing treatment, do I need to wait until the treatment has finished before submitting my claim?
No - we are able to settle any initial costs, then make interim payments should further treatment be necessary.

What should I do if my pet is referred on to another vet?
In the event that your pet is referred on to another vet - simply contact us straightaway for advice and assistance.

What should I do if I have added Overseas travel to my policy?
You should keep receipts, invoices or any other evidence of your expenses as these may help to support your claim.

Included with your 'Pet documents' is a blank claim form - in the event that you need to claim for any veterinary treatment, please ask the vet that treats your pet to complete this. Don't worry if this is not written in English - we will be able to translate it.

You do not need to notify us of your claim until your return to the UK.

Will my premium increase if I make a claim?
No. As most incidents affecting your pet will be outside of your control we do not feel you should be penalised for making a claim. For the same reason we do not offer a 'no claims discount' on our pet insurance policies.

How long will it take to sort out my claim?
Some claims are more straightforward than others - when you call us, one of our Claims Representives will give you an indication of the timescales involved.

Who will deal with my claim once it has been reported?
We have a dedicated Pet Claims Unit, based in our Bristol office. Their contact details are:

Pet Claims Unit
Direct Line Insurance plc
Direct Line House
1 Cathedral Square
Trinity Street
Bristol
BS1 5DL

Telephone - 0845 246 8496
Fax - 0117 984 6890

Calls may be recorded

What measures do Direct Line take to prevent fraud?
Our main aim is to ensure that our honest customers, who of course are the vast majority, are dealt with as soon as possible. However, we know that fraud is a reality and that a very small number of people provide false details in order to make up, or inflate claims. We believe that it is important that we identify these people and avoid paying such claims as they affect the cost of insurance for everybody. As fraud is a criminal offence, we believe it is our duty to forward details of fraud to the Police.

There are a number of insurance industry databases through which we share information with other companies about claims and fraudsters. This allows us to use the latest technology to make many checks looking for unusual features and fraud. We also share some information about fraud with other companies within the financial services industry, the Police and other bodies where the law allows us to do so. These pages are for information purposes only. They do not form part of the contract of insurance. Calls may be recorded. Max call charge from a BT landline is 3p per minute. Calls from other networks may vary.

Link to previous articles: Direct Line Pet Insurance: Summary of cover Direct Line Pet Insurance Travel Insurance: Claims information Direct Line Van Insurance: Legal Protection Direct Line Van Insurance: New improved Van Insurance Direct Line Van Insurance: Types of cover

Direct Line Pet Insurance: Summary of cover

We cover cats and dogs:

• Excludes working animals and dangerous dogs
• Must be in good health on the start date of insurance
• Aged between 8 weeks and up to 9 years (up to 6 years for some breeds)
• Must reside in the UK

Get the cover you need

It's designed to be flexible! Vet's fees cover is automatically included, up to the level you select, and our Helplines are included. Tailor the rest of the benefit options to suit your needs!

Essential policy:

Covers vet's fees for a maximum of 12 months treatment for each illness, injury or disease, up to £4,000 (per condition).

Advanced policy:

Covers vet's fees up to £6,000 (per condition) – with no time limit on reaching this amount.

Helplines

• Both policies include three Helplines:
• Find a vet helpline
• Pet Bereavement Counselling
• Legal Advice Line

3 Additional Cover Options

i – Additional Benefits
Advertising and reward if your pet strays, gets lost or is stolen - up to £1000 towards advertising and £200 for reward
Reimbursement if you lose your pet through theft, straying or death due to accidental injury – purchase price, up to £1,500
Pet boarding costs if you have to go into hospital for more than 4 days – up to £1000
Holiday cancellation cover due to loss, illness or injury of your pet - up to £5,000
ii – Third Party Liability
Legal liability should your dog cause injury to another person or damage their property – up to £2 million (dogs only)

iii – Overseas Travel Cover Extends the cover above for trips to countries included in the government's Pet Travel Scheme. There is no cover for liability arising under the laws of the USA or Canada. Also covers: • Quarantine costs • Loss of pet passport • Repeat tick and worming treatment • Emergency expenses while abroad. • Need more information? See our Policy Document

Link to previous articles: Direct Line Pet Insurance Travel Insurance: Claims information Direct Line Van Insurance: Legal Protection Direct Line Van Insurance: New improved Van Insurance Direct Line Van Insurance: Types of cover Direct Line Home Insurance: Legal problems & your rights

Direct Line Pet Insurance

Direct Line Pet Insurance deal : good deal that gets even better...

• We’ll be giving all customers that insure their pets with us before 31st December 2007 up to £20 towards the cost of vaccinations. If the price is less we cover the actual cost. The offer is redeemable within the first 12 months from the start date of your policy.
• Insure more than one pet and we'll give you a 10% discount
• We'll give you 12 Month's free membership of The Missing Pets Bureau
• Our pet insurance can pay your vet direct
• Your pet is covered per condition, so there's no restriction on the number of times you can claim

• Fixed one-off excess for each condition • If you're hospitalised, we'll pay up to £1000 for your pet's boarding costs Protect your pets andhelp the Scottish SPCA. Insure with us and we'll donate 10% of your premium to the Scottish SPCA (a good deal better from Direct Line)

Link to previous articles : Travel Insurance: Claims information Direct Line Van Insurance: Legal Protection Direct Line Van Insurance: New improved Van Insurance Direct Line Van Insurance: Types of cover Direct Line Home Insurance: Legal problems & your rights Direct Line Home Insurance: Family legal protection

Direct Line Travel Insurance Claims FAQ

Frequently asked claims questions:

Q:What kind of details and additional information will I be asked to provide?
Q: What is a Policy Excess?
Q: What service does the 24 hour emergency assistance offer?
Q: How will I know if my claim is covered by my policy?
Q: While I'm away from home, do I need to report any loss or theft to the police
Q: What should I do if my belongings are damaged or temporarily lost in transit
Q: What should I do if I need medical attention while abroad?
Q: What should I do if I need to return home urgently?
Q: What do I need to do in the event of a travel delay?
Q: Are there any organisations I can contact for counselling if I am upset by the incident?
Q: How long will it take to sort out my claim?
Q: Who will deal with my claim once it has been reported?
Q: What measures do Direct Line take to prevent fraud?

What kind of details and additional information will I be asked to provide?
It is essential you keep receipts, guarantees, instruction manuals, valuations or photographs of your belongings as these may help to support your claim.
We may also ask you to provide us with estimates or invoices for claims involving replacement of items or medical expenses.

What is a Policy Excess?
This is the part of the claim that you agree to pay - we cover you for the remaining amount up to the limit of your cover. Our Claims Advisor will inform you of the amount of the excess and details can also be found in your policy schedule.
We will deduct the amount of the Policy Excess from the settlement of your claim, or alternatively our appointed specialist or supplier will collect this amount from you on our behalf.

What service does the 24 hour emergency assistance offer?
When away from home, the unexpected always seems to happen at the most inconvenient time. You can call our emergency helpline service, which is operated in conjunction with Direct Line Assistance Service. You will need to select the correct number depending on your geographical location.
Both Direct Line Assistance Services are specialist providers who operate a 24-hour emergency assistance service. They are available at any time to discuss the nature of your problem and to provide specialist advice and assistance to you.

How will I know if my claim is covered by my policy?
Our Claims Advisers are fully trained and have an excellent knowledge of the policy cover you have arranged with us. Wherever possible, we will let you know during your first call to us whether your claim is covered by your policy.
It may help you to read through your policy details before ringing us to report your claim.

While I'm away from home, do I need to report any loss or theft to the police?
Yes, you should report any loss or theft to the police within 24 hours of discovery. In the event that you are unable to contact the police, a report should be made to either your tour representative, accommodation provider or carrier - for example the airline or ferry company.

What should I do if my belongings are damaged or temporarily lost in transit?
You should report any damage or temporary loss to your carrier (for example the airline or ferry company) and obtain a 'Property Irregularity Report' (commonly known as a 'PIR') from them. Please keep any damaged items for inspection.
If your belongings have been temporarily lost and you need to purchase any replacement items, please keep all your receipts as this will help us to deal with your claim.

What should I do if I need medical attention while abroad?
If the medical condition appears to be serious, you should contact our emergency helpline straightaway for advice and assistance. For any other medical treatment, you should pay any bills yourself and keep the receipts as this will help us to deal with your claim.

What should I do if I need to return home urgently?
In the event that you need to return home urgently - don't worry - simply contact our emergency helpline straightaway for advice and assistance.

What do I need to do in the event of a travel delay?
You should obtain written confirmation from the airline, train or ferry company, giving exact details of the reason for and length of the delay.

Are there any organisations I can contact for counselling if I am upset by the incident?
Direct Line, in association with Victim Support, can provide you with support when you need it the most. The emotional effects of a theft or loss can be difficult to deal with - you may feel angry, frightened or unsafe.
Most people suffer in silence, but you needn't - just sharing your thoughts can help. Together, Direct Line and Victim Support can help you pick up the pieces practically and emotionally.
Victim Support is the national charity offering victims of crime emotional support through trained volunteers and, if you need a knowledgeable and sympathetic ear, the service is available 24 hours a day.
Simply call the Victim Support line on 0845 30 30 900 or have a look at their web site at www.victimsupport.com

How long will it take to sort out my claim?
Some claims are more straightforward than others. When you call us, one of our Claims Advisers will give you an indication of the timescales involved.

Who will deal with my claim once it has been reported?
We have our own dedicated Travel Claims Unit, based in our Glasgow office.
The contact details are:
Travel Claims Unit
Direct Line House
14-18 Cadogan Street
Glasgow
G2 6QN
Telephone - 0845 246 8680
Fax - 0141 204 4754
Calls may be recorded

What measures do Direct Line take to prevent fraud? Our main aim is to ensure that our honest customers, which of course are the vast majority, are dealt with as soon as possible. However, we know that fraud is a reality and that a very small number of people provide false details in order to make up, or inflate claims. We believe that it is important that we identify these people and avoid paying such claims as they affect the cost of insurance for everybody. As fraud is a criminal offence, we believe it is our duty to forward details of fraud to the Police. There are a number of insurance industry databases through which we share information with other companies about claims and fraudsters. This allows us to use the latest technology to make many checks looking for unusual features and fraud. We also share some information about fraud with other companies within the financial services industry, the Police and other bodies where the law allows us to do so. These pages are for information purposes only. They do not form part of the contract of insurance. Insurance policies are subject to our normal underwriting criteria. Calls may be recorded. Max call charge from a BT landline is 3p per minute. Calls from other networks may vary.

Link to previous articles : Travel Insurance: Claims information Direct Line Van Insurance: Legal Protection Direct Line Van Insurance: New improved Van Insurance Direct Line Van Insurance: Types of cover Direct Line Home Insurance: Legal problems & your rights Direct Line Home Insurance: Family legal protection

Travel Insurance: Claims information

Need to make a claim? Direct Line is here to help you.

It is when you need to make a claim that you find out how good your travel insurer really is. You can be sure that we will deal with your claim quickly and fairly.

Call: 0845 246 8680

Lines open: 9am-5pm Monday to Friday

Out of hours? Call one of our 24-hour Emergency Helplines
Direct Line Assistance Service:

In USA & Canada call toll free:
1 877 350 6968


In Central & South America & Caribbean call collect:
(Canada) 905 816 2565


From anywhere else in the world:
(UK) +44 870 241 4628

Or in the UK: 0870 241 4628

Calls may be recorded. Max call charge from a BT landline is 3p per minute. Calls from other networks may vary.

Your step-by-step guide to making a travel claim

Before you ring us:

Please have your policy number ready - you will find this at the top of your policy schedule.

What happens next? • You will be asked to provide details of your claim by one of our friendly Claims Advisers. • We will advise you whether your claim is covered by your policy and the amount of any excess which may apply. • We will issue a claim form to you if necessary. • You may be asked to provide us with additional information to support your claim. We will explain to you what will happen next.

Link to previous articles : Direct Line Van Insurance: Legal Protection Direct Line Van Insurance: New improved Van Insurance Direct Line Van Insurance: Types of cover Direct Line Home Insurance: Legal problems & your rights Direct Line Home Insurance: Family legal protection Direct line Home Insurance Claims FAQ

Direct Line Travel Insurance

The good deal that gets even better...

• Every day in November we’re giving away one 160GB iPod classic. (Terms & conditions apply. )

• Single trip policies from £10.66 and annual cover from £48.25 (annual cover available to under 65's only)

• We cover children for independent travel like school trips

• One excess per incident (not 'per section' like some insurers)

• New-for-old replacements as standard (with the exception of clothing)

• Up to £250 total valuables limit to replace your stolen or damaged items

• Unlike some insurers, we cover your watches and sunglasses

• We also offer a 'long stay Backpacker' policy

Travel Insurance: Personalised cover Whether you're going away for the weekend or backpacking round the world, we've got money-saving cover designed to meet your needs. • Medical expenses abroad up to £5 million • 24-hour Medical Emergency Assistance – including repatriation to the UK from anywhere in the world • Optional sports and activities cover • Discounts for families and children • Baggage and personal money cover.

Link to previous articles : Direct Line Van Insurance: Legal Protection Direct Line Van Insurance: New improved Van Insurance Direct Line Van Insurance: Types of cover Direct Line Home Insurance: Legal problems & your rights Direct Line Home Insurance: Family legal protection Direct line Home Insurance Claims FAQ Direct Line Home Insurance: Insurance claim

Direct Line Van Insurance: Legal Protection

If you have a road traffic accident involving your van that is not your fault, you have a right to be able to claim back your uninsured losses from the driver responsible.
The hourly rate for a qualified solicitor or legal executive’s costs is likely to be in excess of £100. For less then £1.75 per month, our legal protection cover will provide up to £100,000 of legal costs to help you to recover losses that cannot be claimed from any insurance policy.

(Information taken from the 2005 Guide to the Summary Assessment of Costs. Source: www.courtservice.gov.uk)

Examples may include:

Compensation for death or injury
Your van insurance excess under your comprehensive policy
Accident repair costs if you do not have comprehensive cover
Damage to your clothes, luggage or personal belongings if you do not have comprehensive cover
Hire van costs
Loss of earnings
This cover also provides protection for any one else authorised to drive or use the van and for any authorised passengers.
The solicitor acting for you will handle all aspects of your claim such as locating a specialist (i.e. a medical expert) should this be necessary as a result of injury resulting from the accident. The specialist charges will be met by this legal protection policy.
The appointed solicitor is regulated by the Law Society and, should you choose to appoint one of our solicitor’s, they will also have to operate under our own high service level protocols – ensuring that you receive the professional legal service you would expect.
All in all providing you with peace of mind and a hassle free solution when you need it most

Our uninsured driver promise

If you make a claim for an accident that is not your fault and the driver of the vehicle that hits you is not insured, you will not lose your no claims discount or have to pay any excess.

Conditions

We will need: the vehicle registration number and the make and model of the vehicle; and the driver's details, if possible. It also helps us to confirm who is at fault if you can get the names and addresses of any independent witnesses, if available. When you claim, you may have to pay your excess. Also, if when your renewal is due investigations are still ongoing, you may lose your no-claim discount temporarily. However, once we confirm that the accident was the fault of the uninsured driver, we will repay your excess, restore your no claims discount and refund any extra premium you have paid. This promise is for comprehensive policyholders only.

Link to previous articles : Direct Line Van Insurance: New improved Van Insurance Direct Line Van Insurance: Types of cover Direct Line Home Insurance: Legal problems & your rights Direct Line Home Insurance: Family legal protection Direct line Home Insurance Claims FAQ Direct Line Home Insurance: Insurance claim Direct Line Home Insurance: Summary of cover

Direct Line Van Insurance: New improved Van Insurance

Good news for motorists– Direct Line has just announced our new and improved van insurance

Direct Line offers a range of discounts and product innovations that are aimed at achieving one thing – bringing down the cost of van insurance. Read on to find out about the exciting savings…

Named Driver No Claims Discount
Matched No Claims Discount
Multi-van Discount
Breakdown Multi-van Discount

It’s all a fantastic reward for safer driving...

NAMED DRIVER NCD (No Claims Discount)

Direct Line is the first major insurance company in the UK that recognises named drivers’ No Claims history

If you have named drivers on your Direct Line van insurance policy, you (and they) will be pleased to know that we have become the first major insurance company in the UK to offer Named Driver No Claims Discounts.

This means that when we provide your named drivers with a quote for Direct Line van insurance, we’ll recognise every year they haven’t made a claim on your policy.
Taking advantage of this deal couldn’t be easier. Your named drivers’ no claims histories are automatically stored on our system, so when they come to apply for their own policy with us they simply need to give us your details online or on the phone and we can identify them immediately, at which point they will be able to receive up to 5 years' No Claims Discount.

MATCHED NCD (No Claims Discount)

Use your No Claims Discount on your second van

If you are the only person insured on your Direct Line van insurance policy and you purchase a second van that will only be driven by you, we will match your No Claim Discount on the policy for your new vehicle.

MULTI-VAN DISCOUNT

Insure both your vans for less with Direct Line

We don’t want to hit you in the pocket just because you own more than one van. In fact, we are dedicated to doing the exact opposite - saving you money with the new Multi-van Discount.

As part of Direct Line’s new improved van insurance deal, we’re offering a 10% discount on new policies taken out on any additional vans by named drivers or members of your household. This means that, as long as you can identify the existing Direct Line policy in your household or the policy on which you are a named driver, we will discount your premium by 10% - it’s that simple.

BREAKDOWN MULTI-VEHICLE DISCOUNT Multi-van discounts on your breakdown cover Customers who insure more than one van with Direct Line can also save money on their breakdown cover. Our Breakdown Multi-Van Discount offers a fantastic 35% saving off our top two levels of cover.

Link to previous articles : Direct Line Van Insurance: Types of cover Direct Line Home Insurance: Legal problems & your rights Direct Line Home Insurance: Family legal protection Direct line Home Insurance Claims FAQ Direct Line Home Insurance: Insurance claim

Direct Line Van Insurance: Types of cover

1. Third Party Fire & Theft (TPF&T)

This covers you if other people claim against you for injury or damage to their vehicle or property, and if your van is stolen or damaged by fire.

2. Comprehensive

As Third Party Fire and Theft plus accidental damage cover to your van plus cover for personal belongings, medical expenses and personal accident cover. Subject to selected levels of cover.

3. Third Party Only (TPO)

• Covers liability to third parties i.e. claims made by third parties, against you, for bodily injury or damage to their property. Please call us for details.

And that's not all: • Accident Action Pack – what to do if you have an accident • 24 Hour Accident Helpline – expert help and advice at any time • 24 Hour Windscreen Helpline if your windscreen is damaged • Windscreen Repair for damaged windscreens (Comprehensive only) • Legal Protection (optional) - to recover your uninsured losses

Link to previous articles: Direct Line Home Insurance :Home Security Direct Line Home Insurance: Legal problems & your rights Direct Line Home Insurance: Family legal protection Direct line Home Insurance Claims FAQ Direct Line Home Insurance: Insurance claim

Direct Line Home Insurance: Home security

Alarm systems to beat the burglar

We’ve teamed up with one of the UK's leading specialists, Eastern Security, and negotiated great value deals on two types of fully approved professional alarm systems tailored to your home, which qualify you for a 7.5% or a 12.5% discount on contents insurance premiums.

Option 1 – 'Bells Only' system

Just £565 fully installed, includes 12 months comprehensive maintenance including parts and labour guarantee. 24 hour helpline. This system means you will qualify for a 7.5% discount.

Option 2 – 24-hour Monitored System with Keyholder/Police response

Just £585 fully installed, plus maintenance and monitoring charge of £18.25 a month. This system means you will qualify for 12.5% discount.

For more information, and free alarm survey call 0845 246 0934 (Mon – Fri, 9am – 5.30pm)

Save up to 40% on approved locks and bolts

Better security means a 5% discount on your Direct Line contents insurance. For great deals on locks and safes, or to get advice or a catalogue, call 01454 321 311 (Mon – Fri, 9am – 5pm)

Link to previous articles : Direct Line Home Insurance: Legal problems & your rights
Direct Line Home Insurance: Family legal protection
Direct line Home Insurance Claims FAQ
Direct Line Home Insurance: Insurance claim
Direct Line Home Insurance: Summary of cover
Direct Line Home Insurance: Insurance claim
Direct Line Home Insurance Overview

Direct Line Home Insurance: Legal problems & your rights

This information is provided for your assistance only and does not offer a definitive statement of the law.

Personal Injury

Q. Recently while shopping in a large department store I slipped on a wet floor. There were no warning signs and I fell awkwardly breaking my ankle. I have been off work since and I am still receiving outpatient treatment. The store manager sent me a bunch of flowers but I am losing wages. Can I claim compensation?

A. As a lawful visitor, the store owes you a duty to take reasonable steps to ensure your safety. It appears that this duty has been breached by failing to warn shoppers of the wet area or by swiftly cleaning up the mess. As your injuries were suffered as a direct result of the breach, you have a potential claim for damages.

Consumer

Q. I bought a computer two days ago to help my daughter with her GCSE’s. The computer keeps crashing, I cannot open the DVD drive and the helpdesk is always engaged. The shop manager is refusing to replace the computer. What are my legal rights?

A. It appears that your computer is not of satisfactory quality nor fit for its purpose. The shop that sold you the computer is therefore in breach of the Sales of Goods Act 1979. When such a breach occurs soon after purchase, you have a short time to reject the computer and obtain a refund. After this time has elapsed, you will be entitled to a reasonable repair, a replacement of the computer or a partial refund at the discretion of the shop.

Unless you really want a replacement, you should reject the computer, return it to the shop immediately and request a full refund.

Property

Q. 'I am in dispute with my neighbour over the position of the boundary wall separating our properties. He is insisting he is entitled to an extra foot of my land. We have not spoken for several months after falling out over car parking spaces. If he moves the boundary wall and encroaches on my land what steps can I take?
A. It will be necessary to establish who owns the disputed land. Check your legal documents relating to your property firstly. If you have registered land you can obtain a copy of the Title Certificate and filed plan from the Land Registry. If the land is unregistered you will need to refer to your conveyancing deeds which if you have a mortgage, will be with your lender. Clear evidence in legal documents is normally conclusive as to the boundary. If there is no clear evidence you will need to look at all other facts to see if evidence can be established by different means, such as where existing boundaries are and how long they have been there. If your neighbour attempts to move the boundary without your permission you can apply to court for a declaration of the true boundary and require he removes any trespassing wall.

Employment

Q. After working for my employers for the last 5 years I was called into my boss’s office yesterday and dismissed. No explanation was given. After being treated so badly I feel that I must take action. I believe, if you have over one year’s service you can claim unfair dismissal, is this correct?

A. In your circumstances you are correct. Irrespective of your employers reason for your dismissal, it appears that they have not followed statutory procedures they are required to follow in relation to disciplinary and dismissal situations, potentially making your dismissal automatically unfair. You have a right to bring an unfair dismissal claim to an Employment Tribunal. However you should first write to your employers quickly and appeal the decision to dismiss you on-the-spot.
The information in this article is intended to provide you with general information only. You should seek detailed legal advice for individual cases. The information given is based on the laws of England and Wales.
Max call charge from a BT landline is 3p per minute. Calls from other networks may vary.

Link to previous articles : Direct Line Home Insurance: Family legal protection
Direct line Home Insurance Claims FAQ
Direct Line Home Insurance: Insurance claim
Direct Line Home Insurance: Summary of cover
Direct Line Home Insurance: Insurance claim
Direct Line Home Insurance Overview
Directline Car Insurance: Legal Protection

Direct Line Home Insurance: Family legal protection

Family Legal Protection has improved!

If you need legal advice or financial help to claim your rights, our Legal Protection policy is designed to help. For a small additional annual premium, you can have this option added to your home insurance and benefit from:

24 hour advice line

With Direct Line's Family Legal Protection Policy you always have immediate access to legally qualified staff through our exclusive 24 hour helpline. Our legal experts are ready to advise you on any private legal problem, whether or not it results in a claim. And, you can use the helpline as many times as you like!

Legal costs up to £100,000

As a legal protection policyholder we'll meet your legal fees and now we'll cover costs up to £100,000 per claim for the following situations:
• Faulty goods or services you have bought including a holiday that didn't live up to expectations.
• Employment claims including unfair dismissal, redundancy and discrimination on the grounds of sex, race or disability (the cause of action must occur at least 90 days after cover starts).
• Civil claims relating to the ownership or occupation of your home including boundary and neighbour disputes (the cause of action must occur at least 90 days after cover starts).
• Defence of actions against you where you have privately sold personal goods.
• Personal injury claims including accidents at work, in public places, medical and clinical negligence.
On top of this cover, we've also added cover for:
• Tax protection
• Inheritance disputes
• Legal defence for your work as an employee
• Motoring prosecution
• Your salary while you attend jury service...
And we've also extended the existing cover for Personal injury and Contract claims to include:
• Contract disputes for buying or selling your home
• Personal injury and Contract claims that occur outside the UK.

Cover for everyone

Legal Protection cover is available for all members of the family living with you.

The information in this article is intended to provide you with general information only. You should seek detailed legal advice for individual cases. The information given is based on the laws of England and Wales.

Max call charge from a BT landline is 3p per minute. Calls from other networks may vary

Link to previous articles : Direct line Home Insurance Claims FAQ
Direct Line Home Insurance: Insurance claim
Direct Line Home Insurance: Summary of cover
Direct Line Home Insurance: Insurance claim
Direct Line Home Insurance Overview
Directline Car Insurance: Legal Protection
Direct line Car Insurance Claims process

Direct line Home Insurance Claims FAQ

Frequently asked claims questions

Q: What questions will I be asked when I phone to register my claim?
Q: What kind of additional information will I be asked to provide?
Q: Who are the approved suppliers and specialist and what do they do they do?
Q: What is a Policy Excess?
Q: What services does the emergency help-line offer?
Q: How will I know if my claim is covered by my policy?
Q: What should I do if I believe my house is suffering from subsidence?
Q: Are there any organisations I can contact for counselling if I am upset by the incident?
Q: Will my premium increase at the next renewal date if I make a claim?
Q: Is my policy 'new-for-old'?
Q: How long will it take to sort out my claim?
Q: Who will deal with my claim once it has been reported?
Q: What measures do Direct Line take to prevent fraud?
What questions will I be asked when I phone to register my claim?

We will ask you what happened and when it happened and what action you've taken so far. Then we'll ask you what it is you're claiming for and the approximate cost(s) involved.

What kind of additional information will I be asked to provide?

It is helpful if you keep receipts, guarantees, instruction manuals, valuations or photographs for your most valuable items in a safe place as these may help to support your claim. By valuable items, we mean jewellery, watches, paintings, collectors' items and any items/sets of gold or silver.

We may also ask you to provide us with estimates or invoices for claims involving repair or replacement of items.

If the claim involves a building repair, we normally request two estimates for comparison purposes.

If the incident involves theft or criminal damage, or if any property has been lost outside of the home, you should inform the police immediately and make a note of the police incident number.

Who are the approved suppliers and specialists and what do they do?

We have a national panel of approved specialists and suppliers who we may appoint to inspect damage or replace goods on our behalf. Full details of the specialist or supplier and the next steps will be discussed with you by one of our Teleclaims Service Advisers over the telephone.

We also have a team of Claims Advisers, who may visit you at home to discuss your claim in detail and will manage the settlement of your claim for you.

What is a Policy Excess?

This is the part of each claim that you agree to pay - we cover you for the remaining amount. The Teleclaims Service Adviser will inform you of the amount of the excess and details can also be found in the policy schedule.

We will deduct the amount of the Policy Excess from the settlement of your claim, or alternatively our appointed specialist or supplier will collect this amount from you on our behalf.

What service does the emergency helpline offer?

Burst pipes, storm damage, broken windows, damaged locks - the unexpected always happens at the most inconvenient time. If you are unable to contact a local qualified tradesman, you can call our emergency helpline service, which operates a 24-hour domestic emergency assistance service.

The helpline is available at any time to discuss the nature of your problem and to find a local qualified tradesman for you. Arrangements will be made for the tradesman to call you to offer immediate advice and to give you an expected arrival time.

You will be billed for the work. The standard rates are specially negotiated to protect you from excessive charges and you will be asked to sign a satisfaction form upon completion of the repairs.

It is a 24-hour service and the contact number is 0845 601 3004.
Calls may be recorded

Remember to check your policy booklet to see if any of the damage is covered as you may be able to recover the cost, less any policy excess.

How will I know if my claim is covered by my policy?

Our Teleclaims Service Advisers are fully trained and have an excellent knowledge of the policy cover you have arranged with us. Wherever possible, we will let you know during your first call to us whether your claim is covered by your policy.

It may help you to read through the policy booklet along with your schedule of cover before ringing us to report your claim.

What should I do if I believe my house is suffering from subsidence?

Subsidence is the downward movement of the ground supporting your house which usually results in the appearance of small diagonal cracks to the weaker parts of the home. These cracks normally appear above and below windows and doors.

We have a specialist subsidence unit that you may ring for advice or to register a claim on: 020 8686 3313 (ask for the subsidence unit).

Calls may be recorded

Are there any organisations I can contact for counselling if I am upset by the incident?

Direct Line, in association with Victim Support, can provide you with support when you need it the most. The emotional effects of a theft or loss can be difficult to deal with - you may feel angry, frightened or unsafe.

Most people suffer in silence, but you needn't - just sharing your thoughts can help. Together, Direct Line and Victim Support can help you pick up the pieces practically and emotionally.

Victim Support is the national charity offering victims of crime emotional support through trained volunteers. If you need a knowledgeable and sympathetic ear, their services are available 24-hours a day.

Simply call the Victim Support line on 0845 30 30 900 or have a look at their website at www.victimsupport.com

Will my premium increase at the next renewal date if I make a claim?

Our home insurance policies do not include a 'no claims discount', as we feel it would be unfair to penalise clients for the many types of home claims which are totally outside of their control e.g. flood, fire or theft. However, making several claims under your policy could result in an increased premium at the next renewal date. This depends on the number, type and value of claims you make. Our premiums are calculated individually and you will be notified in advance of the renewal date.

Is my policy 'new-for-old'?

Yes, your policy is one of 'reinstatement' or 'new-for-old'. This means that all items (except clothing) will be replaced with the new equivalent without any deduction for 'wear and tear'.

For example, if you have damaged a 5-year-old television, we will replace it with the latest available equivalent model.

How long will it take to sort out my claim?

Some claims are more straightforward than others - when you call to register your claim one of our Teleclaims Service Advisers will give you an indication of the timescales involved.

Who will deal with my claim?

We have Claims Service Units, in Leeds and in Glasgow, and you will be advised which unit will be dealing with your claim at the end of your first telephone call to us. The details and contact numbers will appear on any written correspondence we may send to you.
Your contact numbers are:
Leeds - 0845 246 8416
Glasgow - 0845 246 8417
We also have a Technical Claims Unit - 0845 246 8413 which handles higher value and more complex claims.
Calls may be recorded

What measures do Direct Line take to prevent fraud?

Our main aim is to ensure that our honest customers, which of course are the vast majority, are dealt with as quickly as possible. However, we know that fraud is a reality and that a very small number of people provide false details in order to make up, or inflate claims. We believe it is important that we identify and avoid paying such claims, as they affect the cost of home insurance for everybody. As fraud is a criminal offence, we believe it is our duty to forward details of any fraudulent activities to the Police.
There are a number of insurance industry databases through which we share information with other companies about claims and fraudsters. This allows us to use the latest technology to conduct checks for unusual features and fraud. We also share information about fraud with other companies within the financial services industry, the Police and other bodies where the law allows us to do so.

These pages are for information purposes only. They do not form part of the contract of insurance.

Link to previous articles : Direct Line Home Insurance: Insurance claim
Direct Line Home Insurance: Summary of cover
Direct Line Home Insurance: Insurance claim
Direct Line Home Insurance Overview
Directline Car Insurance: Legal Protection
Direct line Car Insurance Claims process
Other related articles:Types of cover:Directline Car Insurance

Direct Line Home Insurance: Insurance claim

Direct line is here to help you make a claim quickly, and deal with it fairly – with as little hassle as possible.

You can either make a home insurance claim online or call the direc tline teleclaims team on:
0845 246 8710

Lines open:
8am – 8pm Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm Saturday

Out of hours call our 24-hour Emergency Helpline on:
0845 601 3004

Calls may be recorded. Max call charge from a BT landline is 3p per minute. Calls from other networks may vary.

Have you been a victim of crime?

Victim Support is the national charity which helps people cope with the effects of crime. It provides free, confidential, practical help and support – you can call them on 0845 30 30 900 (9am – 9pm weekdays, 9am – 7pm weekends, 9am – 5pm Bank Holidays).

How to claim

• Ring us and we'll tell you if your claim is covered – if you are, we'll register your claim straight away. Please have your policy documents to hand.

• If you have suffered a break-in or lost any property outside your home – call the Police straight away, and make a note of the crime reference number.

• Small claims may be settled immediately over the phone – it will help if you can estimate the cost of repair or replacement of the items concerned.

• For all large claims, we'll arrange for a claims adviser or loss adjuster to visit you as soon as possible

• A Direct Line approved specialist or supplier may be appointed to deal with the claim on our behalf.

Damaged items may be repaired for you.

Link to previous articles : Direct Line Home Insurance: Summary of cover
Direct Line Home Insurance Overview
Directline Car Insurance: Legal Protection
Direct line Car Insurance Claims process
Other related articles:Types of cover:Directline Car Insurance
Direct Line Car Insurance:New improved car insurance
Directline Insurance: Frequently asked Claims questions

Direct Line Home Insurance: Summary of cover

Below are the choices of cover available to you:

Direct Line Buildings Insurance

• Automatically provides buildings cover up to £1,000,000 for the cost of rebuilding your home and any outbuildings.

• Covers the structure of your home, roofs, walls, fences, gates and outbuildings, plus permanent fixtures like kitchens, bathrooms and fitted wardrobes.

• Covers fire, lightning, storm or flood (excluding fences and gates), theft, explosion, escape of water or oil, vandalism and subsidence.

• Also covers burst pipes, accidental damage to windows or sanitary ware and the cost of alternative accommodation if necessary (following an insured event).

• 24-hour Emergency Helpline

Direct Line Contents Insurance

• Provides cover on a new-for-old basis for household goods, including furniture, carpets, curtains, and your personal belongings in the home, garages and sheds.

• Covers cash in your home up to £500, plus items in the garden up to £1,000.

• Covers against fire, smoke damage, lightning, theft, flood and escape of water or oil.

• Also covers accidental damage to TVs, home computers, home entertainment systems, freezer contents (unlimited), replacement locks and keys following theft of keys (unlimited), and possessions temporarily removed from the home to another e.g. while children are at college.

• Includes an automatic £5,000 or 10% increase in cover for several weeks either side of

• Christmas and family weddings.

24-hour Emergency Helpline

Optional Extras

Extra Accidental Damage cover – DIY disasters, damage to furniture, ornaments, carpets etc.

Personal Possessions – covers your personal effects and valuables, including cash and credit cards, outside the home – on holiday, for example.

Family Legal Protection – A confidential 24-hour Helpline manned by legal experts, and up to £100,000 of legal costs to help pursue your rights for issues such as:

- Employment claims – Unfair dismissal, breach of contract, discrimination due to sex, race or disability. The cause of action must start at least 90 days after cover starts.

- Personal injury claims – accidents at work, accidents in public places, accidents caused while cycling or in a car and clinical negligence.

- Contract claims – Purchase of a faulty car, purchase of faulty goods, purchase of negligently performed services, a poor holiday experience.

- Property Claims – Disputes with your neighbour, noisy neighbours, boundary disputes. The cause of action must start at least 90 days after cover starts.
All claims must be reported to the legal Helpline as soon as possible. Claims are handled by our staff or by one of our panel of solicitors until the issue of legal proceedings.

Link to previous article : Direct Line Home Insurance Overview
Directline Car Insurance: Legal Protection
Direct line Car Insurance Claims process
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