Defaults

Firms declared in default

You can search our database to see if the firm you are making enquiries about has already been declared in default by FSCS. This means that FSCS is satisfied that it is unable, or likely to be unable, to pay claims against it. A declaration of default opens the way for the firm's customers to make a claim for compensation to us.

Firm Name:

If a firm is included in this database, it has been declared in default by us and you should contact us if you wish to make a claim.

FSCS will declare a firm in default if:

  • it has received at least one eligible claim against it, and the customer has made a financial loss;
  • we are satisfied that the firm is unable, or likely to be unable, to pay claims against it. We will investigate the firm's financial position to establish this.

Overview of the default process

Our rules and policy for default declarations

 

  • There are also a number of insolvent insurance firms that FSCS is involved with. FSCS may be able to help if you have a claim arising under one of the insurance policies issued by these firms. Insolvent insurance firms

If you would like more information about how to make a claim, please contact us or visit our How to claim section.

If the firm you are making enquiries about is not included in our database:

  • The firm may still be trading and, if so, claims should be made direct to it. You should try to contact the firm at its last known place of business and check any correspondence you might have received. The Financial Ombudsman Service may be able to help you if you cannot resolve a complaint with a firm that is still trading. If the firm is unable to meet claims against it, or if it has disappeared, you can contact us.
  • Even if the firm is no longer trading, it (or its principals) may have enough assets to be able to meet claims made against it. If this is the case FSCS will be unable to declare the firm in default and we will not be able to consider your claim. Try to contact the firm at its last place of business and check any correspondence you might have received. If the firm has moved it may be listed in your local telephone directory. You might also be able to find contact details for the firm or its principals by using the FSA's Firm Check Service or by telephoning their Consumer Helpline on 0845 606 1234. Our Customer Services Team may also be able to provide some suggestions on how to trace a firm or individuals. If the firm is unable to meet claims against it, or has disappeared, you can contact us.
  • To date we have not had any claims against the firm and have not investigated whether it is able to meet claims against it. Contact us if you believe you have a claim against a firm but you cannot find them, or you believe that the firm is unable to deal with claims against it.
  • We have received claims against the firm and are still investigating its ability to meet claims. Contact us if you believe you have a claim against a firm and you believe that the firm is unable to deal with claims against it.