Parts of the UK impacted by outbreaks of violence have been left with damaged shopfronts, homes and cars in the aftermath of riots across the country. 

Several days of violent disorder in towns and cities including Liverpool, Rotherham, Tamworth, Middlesbrough and Hull erupted following the fatal stabbings of three schoolgirls at a Taylor-Swift-themed dance class in Southport on Monday last week.

Over the past week and as a result, victims have been searching for legal protection.

Legal Expert Criminal Injury Specialist, Ellie Lamey, says: “It is important that victims know there is support and there will be consequences.”

Rioters took to the streets causing damage to individuals, shops, cars and homes. Images have since emerged showing the extent of the damage and with the possibility of further disruption this weekend, many affected will want clarity on what their rights are when it comes to legal and financial protection or compensation.

Criminal Injury Specialist at Legal Expert, Ellie Lamey, says: “The recent unrest has understandably left affected individuals, homeowners and business owners feeling distressed and uncertain. It is important that victims know there is support and there will be consequences.”

How did the riots start?

When asked if insurers will cover riot damage, she explained: “Typically, both home and car insurance policies will include a clause about riot damage. But before making a claim, you will likely need to report the damage to police to obtain a crime reference number.”

But what if the insurer does not cover you? Ms Lamey added: “Even if your policy does not cover riot damage, you may still be protected under the law. In England and Wales, victims of criminal damage during a riot can claim for losses.”

Victims can claim compensation if their home, car or business property was not insured effectively under the Riot Compensation Act (RCA).

However, this will only cover you for events defined as a riot and claims must be made to the RCA within 43 days after the riot ended, according to the Association of British Insurers (ABI).

Each RCA claim will be subject to a maximum compensation limit of £1m. 

The RCA does not cover:

  • personal items held outside of a building
  • consequential loss e.g. loss of trade or rent
  • personal injury - this is dealt with by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA)

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Insurance companies can also make a claim to be reimbursed after paying out in full or in part for people affected by riot damage. 

Prime Minister Keir Stamer praised the “robust and swift response” of the criminal justice system after chairing his second Cobra meeting on Tuesday, August 6. 

He said: “That should send a very powerful message to anybody involved, either directly or online, that you are likely to be dealt with within a week. 

“Nobody, but nobody, should be involved themselves in this disorder.”

Today, August 8, police have released dozens of CCTV images in an appeal to identify people in connection with riot violence during the past week. 

Legal Expert CICA specialist, Ms Lamey, added: “Our criminal injury teams will continue to support those who have been wrongfully injured during riot activity. They will assist victims in achieving an element of justice for injuries sustained from crimes of violence. And our advisors are here to support homeowners and businesses who have suffered damages."