In a recent post, the FCA has released its views urging Claims Management Companies and High Cost Lenders to work better together

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In its statement, the FCA acknowledges there has been tension between HCL and CMC firms. Some causes of the tension follow:

• HCLs identified instances of a CMC having presented a claim, but the HCL insists that the customer had never taken out a loan with them.
• HCLs suspend lending to clients who bring complaints while the claim is being investigated, potentially denying those customers an important source of credit. Faced with this, some customers may withdraw the complaint, possibly resulting in the CMC charging the customer a cancellation fee.
• Some HCLs expressed concern that CMCs are using 'catch all' letters of authority (LoAs) to pursue claims against more than one HCL rather than ensuring that a customer agrees to a separate LoA for each HCL against which a claim is being made.
• Some CMCs expressed concerns that HCLs’ checking of LoAs may be excessive and deliberately being used to hinder a customer’s ability to progress their complaint using a CMC.
• Some HCLs appear to be unwilling to share information efficiently – for example by agreeing on streamlined claims processes – with CMCs who are exploring potential claims.

How does this affect you?

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If you are a CMC affected by tensions with HCL or other Lenders, you will need to ensure you have the right systems and processes in place to:

• Identify the customer details are correct, you are clear in the understanding of the customer grounds for a claim before submitting to a lender. This means taking steps to investigate/or validate the existence/merits of a potential claim
• Explain to your customers all fees that may occur, especially around cancellation or any other fees you could charge
• Ensure in your customer discovery that you capture confirmation that you can pursue the claim for the customer and  
• Ensure your complaints process meets the DISP requirements and you are constantly conducting roots analysis to ensure that your team learns from past mishaps.

The team at MEMA has vast experience in dealing with FCA issues regarding claims management firms and can provide advice or assist your team in meeting regulatory effectiveness.