# You are entitled to your own expert (counter-expertise)

> The insurer's expert works for the insurer. You may put your own independent specialist opposite them.

*Gepubliceerd: 2026-06-08* · *Categorie: uitleg*

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After a loss, your insurer often promptly sends its own loss adjuster. That adjuster is knowledgeable, but works on the instructions of — and is paid by — the insurer. You may put your own expert opposite them: the **counter-expert**.

## What does a counter-expert do?

- Assesses the loss afresh, independently and in full.
- Checks the insurer's report for inaccuracies and missed items.
- Translates your loss into the terms of the policy conditions.
- Conducts the discussions with the insurer's expert on your behalf.

## Our advice for damage to your home or business premises

In the event of storm, water, fire, smoke or soot damage to a home or business premises, our advice is always to engage your own expert. The counter-expert handles the procedural side of the settlement with the insurer and prevents miscommunication about the circumstances, the question of fault and the determination of the amount of the loss — the items to be paid out.

## It is about balance, not conflict

A counter-expertise is not about picking a fight. It ensures that your interests, too, are put on the table with the same expertise and in the same language. In practice, the discussions often run all the more smoothly as a result.

> **Good to know** — You are entirely free in your choice of expert. An insurer may not make NIVRE registration a condition: the Court of Appeal of The Hague ruled in 2020 (affirmed by the Dutch Supreme Court in 2022) that such a requirement is unlawful. Moreover, NIVRE was co-founded by insurers and is therefore not an independent quality mark. What counts is demonstrable expertise and genuine independence from insurers.