Photo: Nikiwatanze, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0Your rights as a policyholder in Rwanda
Claims, deadlines, cancellation
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Claim deadlines
| Step | Rule | Law n° 030/2021 |
|---|---|---|
| Tell the insurer | Immediately, as soon as you become aware of the event, by any means of communication | Article 120 |
| Detailed declaration | In writing or electronically within 5 working days of becoming aware (force majeure excepted); a contract cannot shorten it | Article 121 |
| Insurer rejects all or part of the claim | Written notice with the reasons within 10 working days of receiving the claim | Article 122 |
| Insurer admits liability | Pays within one month of all requirements being met and the amount agreed; late payment carries interest | Article 123 |
| Time limit to sue | 5 years from the insured event or from the day you became aware of it; a contract cannot shorten it | Article 158 |
Text: Law n° 030/2021.
When an insurer may refuse to pay
The insurer may refuse a claim when the event was caused by a voluntary act of the policyholder, the insured or the beneficiary, among the grounds of article 124. A fraudulent statement has effects set by article 94; a good-faith mistake by article 95. An insurer cannot rely on an exclusion for a defect, sickness or disability that you did not know of and could not reasonably have known of (article 119) (Law n° 030/2021).
Your contract
- Cover note: until the contract is signed, the insurer gives a cover note stating start and expiry dates (article 107).
- Renewal warning: for a fixed-term contract, the insurer warns you in writing 30 days before it expires (article 109).
- No premium, no insurance, unless both parties agree otherwise (article 113).
- Termination: when one party breaches the contract or the law, the other may terminate with 15 days' notice (article 110); written notice takes effect on the 5th working day (short-term) or the 21st working day (long-term) after it is given, unless the contract or notice says otherwise (article 111).
- Injured third party: may claim directly from the insurer of the person liable (article 152).
- Insurer liquidated: a Policyholders' Compensation Fund, of which every private insurer is a member, indemnifies policyholders (article 177).
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Frequently asked questions
How long does an insurer have to pay a claim in Rwanda?
One month from the moment all requirements are met and the amount is agreed; late payment carries interest (Law n° 030/2021, article 123).
How long do I have to report a claim in Rwanda?
Tell the insurer immediately, then give a detailed written or electronic declaration within 5 working days of becoming aware of the event, except in force majeure (articles 120 and 121).
Can my insurer reject my claim without explanation?
No. A full or partial rejection must be notified in writing, with the grounds, within 10 working days of receiving the claim (article 122).