When a major storm, flood or fire is reported in the media, insurers tend to only warrant a passing mention, and even then, it's typically about cost. But as a disaster unfolds—well before it strikes in some cases—an awful lot starts going on behind the scenes at insurance companies like RSA.
Shifting into high gear
Insurers continually plan for disaster scenarios. At RSA, we have a tried, tested and continually reviewed 'surge plan' in place to ensure that we can give our customers the help they'll need quickly. Key people in the company and suppliers are put on high alert. Damage forecasts or assessments are started. Where multiple locations are affected, employees are moved to the places they can be the most help. The number of call handlers is boosted—if the crisis strikes over a weekend or holiday, like the floods that devastated parts of England over the Christmas 2015/16 period, claims handlers are called into work.