Average Adjusting is an exclusive and little known marine profession; it demands absolute impartiality and a high standard of knowledge of the law and practice of General Average and of marine insurance in numerous jurisdictions.  It is a fascinating business, now requiring knowledge of many types of vessel and trade, as well as maritime law and familiarity with ship operation, charter parties, engineering principles, navigation and all the commercial realities facing modern shipping. 

 

The Average Adjuster’s responsibility is to ensure a disinterested and equitable adjustment of claims for all concerned.  Although the appointment of the Adjuster is generally made or approved by the Shipowner, the Adjuster’s fees (based on hourly rates) and expenses are met by the Insurer as part of the overall claim, or are included in General Average.

 

Politics can also come into play as the Adjuster endeavours to keep Owners, Charterers, Cargo Interests and all Insurers satisfied, although it can be said that if they are all unhappy then an equitable result has been achieved.
 
The Adjuster needs to work through all relevant documents and information to ascertain what claims are covered by the policy and this can involve liaison with Shipowners, Insurance Brokers, Underwriters and their Surveyors, technical Advisors, P&I Clubs and FD&D Associations, Lawyers, Charterers, cargo Owners and their Insurers.

 

Not everything a Shipowner might claim is covered by his insurance policy.  Similarly, not everything that Underwriters might initially refuse to pay or their Surveyors decline to agree deserves to be omitted from a claim.  Shipowners are entitled to receive and Underwriters are obliged to pay the maximum legal claim under the policy and it is the impartial expert who is best at seeing this through.
 
Apart from ocean-going cargo vessels of all descriptions, we are also experienced with claims involving drillships and drilling rigs, yachts and passenger vessels of all types, including the largest cruise liners.

 

If it happens at sea or in port, we can handle it!