In insurance everything depends on two lists: what is covered and what is excluded. Rendering a single phrase in these two lists narrowly or broadly determines whether a claim is paid or not. For this reason there is no margin of freedom in policy texts.
Definitions of cover
Which risks are covered is listed one by one. The list is carried over in full. The scope is preserved.
Lists of exclusions
Excluded cases are listed in a separate section. Few texts are as decisive as this list. It is carried over exactly.
Definitions section
A policy's own definitions bind the whole text. A defined term is not given another equivalent. The rule has no exceptions.
Excess and limits
Wording on sums and rates is carried over exactly. Numerical fields are verified. A layer is added.
Special conditions
Special conditions added on top of the general conditions take precedence. The section is not skipped. The order is preserved.
Endorsements
Endorsements that amend the policy are read together with the main text. One is not translated while the other is left. Integrity is preserved.
Duty of disclosure
Articles on the insured's duty of disclosure have legal consequences. The wording is not weakened. The modality is preserved.
Claim files
A claim notification generates a separate document family. Time pressure is high. The plan is built accordingly.
Loss adjuster reports
Loss assessment reports are heavy with technical terms. Subject expertise is needed. The team is chosen.
Photographs and attached records
Text in visual attachments is carried over too. Labels are not skipped. The scope is kept complete.
Medical documents
In personal insurance, health documents enter the file. The special category data regime applies. Access is restricted.
International reinsurance
In structures where risk is shared, documents run in two languages. The term set is kept in common. Consistency is preserved.
Reinsurer correspondence
Correspondence with parties abroad flows constantly. Capacity is reserved. The flow is organised.
Sector terminology
Insurance terms are established and are not changed freely. The list is taken from the sector. Its application is monitored.
Specimen policy texts
Companies use standard texts. The template is set up once. Later jobs go faster.
Product promotional materials
In texts for the customer, clarity comes first. Plain language is observed. The scope is separated.
The risk of misunderstanding
Cover simplified in a promotional text may conflict with the definition in the policy. The two texts are compared. Consistency is sought.
Confidentiality
Policy and claim information carries personal and commercial data. Access is narrowed. The rule is applied.
The effect of a single phrase on payment
In these texts a single word that broadens or narrows the scope of an exclusion can determine whether a claim is paid or not; for this reason the cover and exclusion sections go through a separate review layer. The review is done by two people. Discipline is maintained.
Limits of liability
What is described here is for information purposes and does not replace an insurance or legal opinion. Assessment belongs to qualified persons. The limit is stated.