What we look for

We are selective about the cases we insure

There are six initial underwriting questions that we consider to see whether we can help you. If you are in any doubt, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Underwriting considerations

Is it a commercial dispute?

We can provide insurance cover for court proceedings, arbitrations, tribunals or appeals, regardless of what stage they have reached.

We will not consider:

  • Personal injury or clinical negligence claims
  • Claims sourced by claims management companies
  • Defamation

Is the limit of indemnity at least £150k?

We cover limits of indemnity ranging from £150,000 to £20,000,000, with higher limits available upon request.

Are the prospects of success better than even?

We are looking for cases where the prospects of success are better than even.

Does the legal team have the relevant experience?

The proposer’s legal representative(s) and any expert(s) need to have the requisite experience for the case.

Where is the proposer domiciled?

We can provide insurance cover where the proposer is domiciled in the UK, Channel Islands, Cayman Islands, Bermuda (on a non-admitted basis) and any other country where the insurer can issue dispute insurance policies, subject to prior approval.

Are there sufficient funds to finance the dispute?

We do not offer fully deferred and contingent premiums and therefore the proposer, or a litigation funder, must have the funds to be able to pay the premium. We also need to ensure that there are sufficient funds to cover the legal fees and disbursements relating to the dispute or that litigation funding has been arranged.

Working with us

Their experience, quick turnaround of cases and excellent service sets a gold standard for the industry as a whole – I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.

— Martin Scott, Partner, Walker Morris LLP

We’ve always received excellent service from Harbour Underwriting: they are responsive, pay promptly and make decisions quickly.  I am always happy to work with them.

— Adrian Chopin, Managing Director, Benchwalk Advisors LLC

Thank you for your patience and flexibility in helping us to get this case over the line. Not everyone works like that, and it has been very refreshing and helpful.

— John Evans, Partner, Fladgate LLP

We used Harbour Underwriting for a particularly sensitive case where a number of unexpected and challenging issues arose. At each point, Harbour provided a solution in a very user-friendly and efficient way.

— Simon Bennett, Partner, Fox Williams LLP

We have successfully worked with Harbour Underwriting on a number of cases and find them very easy to deal with.

— Martin Scott, Partner, Walker Morris LLP

Harbour’s team understand well the pressures of dispute resolution and are always accommodating and responsive.

— Richard Bamforth, Partner, Head of Arbitration Group, CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang LLP

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