As the pandemic forced thousands of small businesses to shut their doors, many turned to their insurers for lifeline payouts, only to be met with silence, delay, or flat-out denial. Despite a 2021 Supreme Court ruling in favour of policyholders, many insurers continue to reject legitimate claims.
Among those left in financial distress is Sukhjeet Bahra, a beauty therapist from Leicestershire who had to give up her salon and move her business back home. After her claim was denied by Beazley Syndicates, she joined a group of 69 business owners now taking legal action, with RLK Solicitors fighting in their corner.
“We Paid Our Insurance. We Deserved Support.”
Sukhjeet is not alone. Business owner Lauren Halley from Nottinghamshire shared a similar story, her insurance claim for business interruption was denied, despite nearly 20 years of premiums paid. She, too, had to take out a bounce back loan to stay afloat. These stories echo across thousands of other small business owners who believed they had cover in place, only to be left with mounting debt and emotional stress.
How RLK Solicitors is Championing the Cause
Leading the charge is Chris Guy, Director at RLK Solicitors, who has been vocal about the unfair treatment these clients have received. According to Mr Guy, insurers like Beazley are exploiting time limits on legal claims, dragging out the process in hopes businesses fold or give up.
“This has been their tactic from day one,” says Mr Guy. “Let the company go bust so the claim dies, or stall long enough to make it time barred.”
RLK Solicitors is representing all 69 claimants in a group legal action, pursuing justice for what they argue is a breach of contract. The firm is committed to holding insurers accountable and ensuring small business owners aren’t silenced or forced into financial ruin.
The Real-World Impact
Behind every case is a human story:
Dreams delayed
Homes put at risk
Decades of hard work reduced to legal wrangling
In some heartbreaking cases, lives have been lost due to the stress. RLK Solicitors continues to stand firm, determined to give voice to those who feel ignored.
Think Your Business Was Affected?
If your insurance provider refused to pay out a business interruption claim during COVID-19, you may still have a case, but time is of the essence.
Contact RLK Solicitors today to find out if you’re eligible to join the legal action or start your own claim. Call 0121 450 7800 or email enquiries@rlksolicitors.com.
You paid your premiums. Now it’s time to fight for what you’re owed.
Widespread Media Attention Highlights Urgency of Claims
RLK Solicitors’ work has received widespread media attention, including coverage on BBC News, BBC Radio Nottingham, and a detailed feature in May 2024 exploring the scale of the issue and who may be eligible to claim. For background information, case studies, and legal guidance on business interruption insurance, visit our insights hub:
🔗 Business Interruption Claims – Are You Eligible?
📰 Read the latest BBC News coverage
This ongoing exposure underscores the national importance of the issue and the urgent need for affected businesses to take legal advice without delay.
Chris has a strong background in insurance-based Civil Litigation and is Head of the Insurance Litigation department. Chris brings a sharp commercial mindset to his work, having spent time in the legal team of a major insurer and working in-house with FTSE 250 companies and international insurers. His expertise in Civil Litigation has earned him recognition in the Legal 500, and he is known for his meticulous attention to detail, commitment, and approachable client service.
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RLK Solicitors Ltd is registered in England and Wales under company number 7189629 and is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors. Regulation Authority under SRA number 522998.
