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Underinsurance (average) calculator

If a client is underinsured, most commercial policies cut every claim in proportion — even small ones. Use this to show the effect.

See how average reduces a claim

Insured proportion
75%
Amount paid
£75,000
Client pays
£25,000

Before any excess. Some policies have no average or allow a margin (for example 15%). Always check the wording.

What is the average clause?

Average means the insurer pays the same share of a claim as the share of value that was insured. Insure £300,000 of property worth £400,000 (75%) and a £100,000 claim pays £75,000.

Why it matters even for small claims

Clients often think underinsurance only matters for a total loss. Average applies to partial losses too, which is why it causes so many complaints.

How to avoid it

  • Get a proper rebuild cost valuation — try our rebuild cost calculator.
  • Review stock and contents values at every renewal.
  • Ask whether day-one reinstatement or an average margin is available.

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