Understanding recourse in insurance claims 

After a claim is filed, the insurer assigns a claims adjuster to assess recourse opportunities. For high‑value or complex claims, a team may be formed to evaluate the case collectively. 

An insurer further strengthens this process by, for example involving senior adjusters and legal experts early to secure the customer’s position. Insurer’s may also be better positioned to launch investigations. 

Early and comprehensive preparation significantly increases the chances of a successful recourse. The ideal scenario is one where the insured identifies the responsible party and provides clear documentation in the incident report. Larger companies often have dedicated teams for insurer contact, but even then, the depth and quality of insurer support can be decisive.  

According to Kari Ketven, Head of Resource Claims, “Timeliness and evidence collection are key. When the insurer is involved early on, we can help ensure that customers receive strategic guidance and consistent communication at every stage, which helps customers avoid potential pitfalls.” 

Similarly, accurate and timely evidence collection is essential. This includes photographs, damage reports, witness statements, technical data, and more. To avoid cases where unnecessary delays complicate securing evidence, the swift deployment of adjusters and If’s technical experts can provide clear benefits, for example, regarding guidance on what evidence to secure immediately. 

Typically, the insurer claims the amount it has compensated, while the customer claims uncovered costs. Both parties may jointly pursue the responsible party. The insurer manages legal reasoning; the customer justifies their own uncovered losses.  

Kari Ketven highlights, “Success is based on simple but vital details, for example, proactive communication and transparency on responsibilities, processes, and expectations. Early collaboration ensures a shared understanding of scope, timelines, and information needs.” 

Disputes are common and often require skilled legal support. An insurer can provide guidance and support to their clients via their in‑house legal teams who have deep legal experience across various industrial losses. 

If the responsible party ignores or rejects the claim, litigation or arbitration may be required. Customers must weigh risks and costs with their legal counsel. 

Complex legal environments, contract structures that waive damage claims, and shifting insurance responsibilities pose challenges. It is important to identify hidden risks and clarify implications before problems arise. 

Rauna Irjala, Manager, Large & International Claims notes, “The landscape is changing. Today’s world is very different, and we see the impacts of geopolitical tensions, increased protectionism, and large-scale global supply chain disruption. In the past, we at If Insurance, have always recommended that our clients can rely on established industry agreements when forming business relationships. We continue to highlight the importance of customers to meet all contractual insurance obligations and ensure they address every significant risk.”  

Rauna continues, “There is no simple answer to the volatility facing markets today, change is now a constant possibility, and we must adapt to the current conditions. Having a strong partner is now more important than ever before.” 

In turbulent times, clients benefit from partnering with insurers who maintain high standards of transparency, ensuring customers understand the long‑term financial value of recourse success. Collaborating with customers, insurers can help ensure consistent and fair recourse handling, both internally and externally. It is also important to promote sector‑based accountability, which encourages prevention and reduces long‑term insurance costs for all.