Category: Claims handling · Reviewed by Chrissie Anderson, Client Executive · Last reviewed 2026-06-11
A bureau claim is a claim processed through the central administrative systems of the London Market — Xchanging, ECF and the broader bureau infrastructure — as distinct from claims handled bilaterally between broker and insurer.
The London Market’s bureau systems are the central administrative infrastructure that makes the syndicated underwriting model possible. Without the bureau, every claim on every slip would need to be processed separately with each of the participating syndicates. The bureau aggregates the administration, allowing a single set of instructions to settle on the slip’s many participants.
A “bureau claim” is one routed through this infrastructure. Most Lloyd’s claims are bureau claims; some company-market business and some delegated authority business is handled outside the bureau.
The framework includes:
The infrastructure is undergoing modernisation through Blueprint Two and successor programmes; the basic concept of bureau claims handling will continue but the technology platform is evolving.
A bureau claim runs through:
The broker notifies the slip leader through the broker’s normal channel (often email plus loading to the bureau system).
The bureau system (ECF and supporting infrastructure) creates the claim record visible to all market participants.
The leader handles the claim per the Scheme. Decisions are recorded in the bureau system.
Settlement instructions flow from the bureau system to each participating insurer, who pays its share. The bureau aggregates the payments and the broker remits to the client (or to the third party as appropriate).
The bureau also handles:
For non-bureau claims (a smaller subset of London Market business, particularly some company-market and delegated authority business), claims are handled bilaterally between broker and insurer outside the central infrastructure. The administrative cost is higher but the handling can be more bespoke.
The bureau claims model has historically delivered substantial efficiency for the London Market. Modernisation programmes are aimed at preserving the efficiency while updating the technology to current standards.
“ECF bureau claim” — claims routed through ECF.
“LIDS bureau claim” — claims using the LIDS settlement infrastructure.
“Non-bureau claim” — claims handled outside the bureau (some company-market business; some delegated authority).
“International bureau claim” — claims under Lloyd’s international operations using local bureau infrastructure.
A construction insurance claim is notified on a London Market slip with both Lloyd’s syndicates (60% of capacity) and company-market followers (40%). Both participate in the bureau system.
The broker loads the claim notification to ECF; the bureau system creates the record. The slip leader (a Lloyd’s syndicate) handles. The follower mix includes Lloyd’s syndicates and company-market participants; all see the file through the bureau.
The claim is handled to settlement at $4.5m over 14 months. Settlement instructions:
The bureau aggregates the payment instructions. Each insurer’s accounts payable system processes its share. The total $4.5m flows to the broker’s client account; the broker remits to the client.
Total elapsed time from final settlement decision to client receipt: approximately 18 days. The bureau infrastructure makes this possible despite the involvement of 14 separate insurance participants.
By Matt Bartlett, Director, on 2026-06-11. Next review: 2026-12-11.
This entry is part of the Apex Insurance Wiki. Last reviewed by Matt Bartlett on 2026-06-11. Apex Insurance Brokers Limited, FCA FRN 724952, Companies House 07014570. Not regulated advice — consult your broker on your specific position.
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