Frequently asked questions

Why should I choose GCS?

At GCS you will find an experienced team of Underwriters specialising in conveyancing risks. All of our underwriters enjoy at least ten years’ experience. We are leaders in our field and pioneered the introduction of Instant Issue policies. In addition to providing unparalleled quality products – the majority of our policies offer perpetual cover for example - we actively seek to provide our customers with the very best levels of service. This can be seen in every area of our business from providing direct access to experienced underwriters, to our commitment to straightforward, jargon-free solutions.

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What is the difference between ‘Instant Issue’ and ‘Bespoke’ policies?

Instant Issue policies are policies that can be issued directly by you, giving your clients instant cover, without further sanction by or referral to the insurers or our underwriters. To provide your clients with Instant Issue cover, you simply need to follow straightforward issue instructions and satisfy the standard risk acceptance criteria. GCS Instant Issue was conceived more than ten years ago following uniquely negotiated terms between our underwriters and insurers. Our Instant Issue facility remains the quickest and easiest way in which you can arrange cover for commonly found conveyancing risks.

Bespoke policies are arranged for you directly by our team of experienced underwriters. They cover anything that doesn’t fit the Instant Issue mould and may include new-builds and developments, and complex or unusual risks for example.

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What properties are covered by your legal indemnity policies?

Our range of products cover all your residential property, commercial property and development site needs. Whether you require routine search indemnity for a residential property or complex title cover for a multi-million-pound development, we can provide the solution.

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Can I find cheaper products elsewhere?

Possibly, but these may not provide the same level of cover. Our policies are specifically designed to offer a broad range of cover, and satisfy the long-term requirements of both property owners and mortgage lenders. Nearly all of our policies provide perpetual cover, safeguarding value and ease of sale in the future.

Instead of burdening you with confusing choices, we present clear-cut, uncomplicated policies with straightforward conditions and easy-to-understand terms. Our comprehensive cover is supported by the highest standard of customer service both before and after policies are issued, and by quick and efficient claims handling.

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How can I organise a policy?

We pride ourselves on making it as easy as possible for you to arrange cover. Should you require a bespoke policy, just give us a ring or fax or e-mail your enquiry to us. Your enquiry will be answered directly by one of our experienced underwriters, who will assess the risk and advise you of the options then and there.

For immediate cover of existing residential or commercial units you may choose one of our Instant Issue policies, which you may access in a hard copy format (A4 binder), or electronically through our secure GCS Online facility.

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Can anyone set up an Instant Issue policy?

No, to arrange a policy on behalf of your client you must:

• be a practising solicitor, licensed conveyancer or legal executive
• either be regulated by your professional body (the Law Society or Council for Licensed Conveyancers) or directly authorised by the Financial Services Authority to carry out insurance mediation (this requirement applies whenever advice is given in relation to title indemnity policies in general and is not exclusive to Guaranteed Conveyancing Solutions or Instant Issue) 
• ensure the issue instructions and acceptance criteria are met

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Are there any charges for issuing policies?

No, other than the premium and obligatory insurance premium tax. We make no charge for considering enquiries regardless of whether or not an offer of cover is taken up.

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Can I extend my client’s existing policy?

Depending on the policy, the chances are this would be no problem at all.  If the policy is one of our Instant Issue policies, you may be able to increase its cover instantly by creating a Top-up policy on-line. Find out how much this costs by going to Quick Quote on our web-site.  Top-up policies are also available in our self-issue pack. Alternatively, one of our underwriters can sort out the details with you. Just give us a call.

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How does my client make a claim?

Making a claim is a straightforward process overseen by our claims manager. Contact details and the claims procedure are contained within the policy documents. Alternatively contact us directly and we will guide you through the process.

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How do I make a complaint?

We take customer service very seriously and want to hear from you should your experience be anything less than service of the highest standard. Formal complaints should be made in writing to our Managing Director who will, in the first instance, try to resolve the issue with you. For full details on the complaints process, see our complaints procedure.

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