The problem of underinsurance and the application of average is worsening and professional negligence claims against insurance brokers (for the shortfall in claims payments) are expected to increase. Indeed, a recent survey found that a staggering 46% of commercial properties were likely to be underinsured, with the average shortfall in cover being 40%. There has been significant inflation in rebuild and repair costs (labour and materials) and delays are extending periods of business interruption. Claim payments are being reduced, often significantly, due to such underinsurance. A broker is not a surveyor or valuer, but is under a duty to advise clients on the need to keep the adequacy of building sums insured under regular review, as well as warning of the potential consequences of average being applied where there is underinsurance. Further, the broker must advise on an appropriate length of business interruption insurance for a client's business. Without such clear advice, clients facing shortfalls in claim payments are likely to look to their insurance brokers for compensation.