Low start endowment insurance

Variation of low cost endowment under which the premiums in the early years are low on the understanding that later premiums will be at higher than normal level to compensate for the early years reduction. The aim is to assist a person with a limited income but who has prospects of good future salary increases. The sum insured and bonuses are not affected by the low early premiums.

Lowering of ground water

A ‘nuisance’ peril that may create liability for third party property damage. Construction industry firms face this risk, which can also cause damage to the contract works and the insured’s own property. Insurance can be arranged under JCT clause 21(2)(1) ‘non-negligent’ cover. Ground water is water occupying the pores and crevices of rock and soil as opposed to surface water. Where the work of the contractor lowers the ground water the stability of buildings may be undermined leading to a nuisance.

Lump sum

Method of settlement wher the claimant or beneficiary receives the entire proceeds of the policy at once rather than in instalments. Life policies are usually settled in this way.

Lutine Bell

The bell from HMS Lutine, a captured French vessel, lost in 1799 when carrying bullion much of which was recovered in 1857-8. The bell now hangs in the ‘Room’ at Lloyd’s above the Caller’s Rostrum and is rung to call attention to very important announcements such as casualties and arrivals of missing ships. It is rung once for bad news and twice for good news.

Machinery erection insurance

An engineering insurance catering for contractors and others who move, erect or install plant and machinery. The cover enables the contractor to meet his contractual obligations and cover can extend to: testing operations; maintenance period liability; constructional plant and equipment used in connection with the contract; manufacturers’ guarantee for repairs or replacements from manufacturing defects.

Made good

The sums paid to a general average fund to make good losses incurred by the general average act.
***
The value of that part of a ship or cargo that is sacrificed in a general average is called the “made good.” The owner is entitled to the cost of repairs to the ship or the net value of the cargo sacrificed.