Aviva to close Essex office as it moves claims handling online
Aviva has put 120 jobs in Essex on the line as it proposes handling more claims online. The company said it wants to close its Southend offices by May and move any leftover positions to its property claims operations centre in Perth, Scotland. Brokers said they understood the rationale behind the move. “Technology will make the service better for customers," said Brokerbility chairman Ashwin Mistry, adding that most claims were too small to require in-field investigation. 

Brokers agree technology can help claims service but Unite Union slams the job losses.

Brokers have agreed that technology can help the claims process following the announcement that Aviva is to put 120 commercial property roles at risk and close its Southend office.

It is proposing to move work carried out in its commercial property business in Southend to Perth where its property claims operations are based. The insurer has stated that more claims will be processed online.

An Aviva spokesman said: “Our strategy in property claims has always been underpinned by investing in