The situation relating to the spread of a new Coronavirus strain from Wuhan in Hubei province in China continues to develop rapidly.
Following the statement released on 31st January which highlighted Coronavirus as a known event from 22nd January 2020, the information below is intended to assist in responding to numerous questions clients may have.
Riskworks will continue to assess all claims submitted in relation to Coronavirus in accordance with the policy terms, conditions and limitations and applicable law. What is covered?
In relation to potential claims for Disruption (including but not limited to cancellation, curtailment and rearrangement), the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) advised against all but essential travel to mainland China (not including Hong Kong and Macao) on 28th January and on 4th February the FCO urged all British Nationals to leave China if they are able to do so.
Riskworks will therefore assess claims for Disruption where an Insured Person booked to travel to Hubei province, China prior to 9.00 am GMT 22 January 2020. Also, Riskworks will assess claims for Disruption where an Insured Person booked to travel to the remainder of mainland China prior to 9:00 am GMT 28 January 2020 but who decided to cancel or re-arrange their trip because of guidance issued by the FCO. All claims will be dealt with on individual merits and depending on the circumstances, in line with the policy and the foreign office travel advice.
Cancelling a trip to a destination where the FCO are not advising travel to would be viewed as disinclination to travel and no cover would apply.”
Where an Insured Person booked to travel after these dates the Policy may not respond to a claim for Disruption due to the spread of Coronavirus being a known event.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us for any further clarification or information regarding travel insurance
We would additionally suggest that travellers check the FCO website regularly for any changes before booking a trip.