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If you need to make a claim on your bicycle insurance, you'll want the process to go as smoothly as possible. To do that, it’s important that you understand exactly what steps you need to take and the information you need to provide. Find out more in this guide.

Before you make a claim

If you are involved in an accident with another person, it’s important that you do not accept blame or make any settlement before you have contacted your insurer.

Accepting blame could be used against you later on. Even apologising can be enough to establish blame.

Before you make your claim, gather together the necessary information and paperwork so that you can supply this to your insurer. For example, you’ll need:

• A crime reference number from the police if applicable, eg if your bike was stolen

• Proof of purchase of your bike and lock if you have one

• Estimate of the cost of repair or replacement from a registered repairer

• Any photographic evidence that supports your claim

If you can provide all of this information straight away, some insurers can process claims in as little as 10 working days.

How to make a claim

When you’re ready to make your claim, follow the steps below:

• Contact your insurer: call your insurer on their claims line, which can be found on your policy document. Alternatively, you can find the contact details on your insurer's website

• Fill in their claims form: most insurers will send you a claims form to complete, but some may offer an online system you can use

• Submit your claim: you will need to send your claims form back with any requested supporting documents, or upload them if claiming online

Paying an excess

When you claim on your bicycle insurance you need to pay the excess amount set out in your policy document. You can find more on how bicycle insurance excess works here.

This amount will either be deducted from the payout you receive, or you need to pay it to the insurer if they arrange the repairs or replacement.

Check your policy before you claim to see what excess you need to pay.

Sometimes it can be cheaper to pay for repairs out of your own pocket than to claim on your insurance if you have a high excess.

How your claim will be settled

If your bike is stolen or damaged beyond repair, most insurers either:

• Replace it with a like-for-like model

• Payout the insured value of your bike

If your bike can be fixed, most insurers arrange for it to be repaired by a specialist of their choice that invoices them directly for the work.

What to do if your claim is rejected

If your claim has been rejected it’s worth reminding yourself of any policy exclusions. Claims might be rejected if, for example:

• Your bike was secured with an unapproved lock

• Your bike was not adequately secured

• Your bike was left unattended for too long

• Your policy does not provide coverage outside the home

• There was no sign of forced access

• You have no proof of purchase or ownership

But if you have checked your policy and still feel your claim is valid, you should contact your insurer and make a complaint.

If they do not change their decision, you can refer your complaint to the , who will independently assess your claim.

Here is the right way to complain to your insurer