The Hand-in-Hand Mutual Fire Insurance Company Limited is living testimony that there’s a silver lining behind every dark cloud. In 1864 Georgetown was a rapidly expanding wooden city; as such, the fear of fire was always present. Unfortunately, that fear was realized when two disastrous fires occurred on April 3rd and July 4th; crippling the commercial area of Georgetown which would amount to approximately one billion dollars in losses at present day value. As a result, expatriate companies decided to double their already expensive premium rates of 3% to 6% of the sum insured.
Today, Hand-in-Hand is proud to be one of the most developed insurance and financial groups in Guyana, offering the most comprehensive range of products. We are the first indigenous AM Best-rated insurers in Guyana, which reflects our financial strength, stability, and creditworthiness, that is, our ability to honour ongoing policies and contractual obligations.
We are a constantly growing organisation. Our management team brings together a set of competencies that ensure nothing but the best in customer service, technology, and corporate governance.
Hand-in-Hand is proud to be one of the most developed insurance and financial groups in Guyana, offering the most comprehensive range of products. We are the first indigenous AM Best-rated insurers in Guyana, which reflects our financial strength, stability, and creditworthiness, that is, our ability to honour ongoing policies and contractual obligations.
We are a constantly growing organization. Our management team brings together a set of competencies that ensure nothing but the best in customer service, technology, and corporate governance. Our nineteen interlinked locations ensure the best customer service wherever you are.
The Hand-in-Hand Mutual Fire Insurance Co. Ltd. (HIHF) is the longest-established property insurer in Guyana. It is a mutual company (meaning that it is owned by its policyholders) established in 1865, and is the founding member of the Hand-in-Hand Group, which comprises:
We are a financially secure Group of Companies united under one head that provides a spectrum of efficient, adequate, modern, and affordable financial services, all interlinked to support the financial security and growth of our stakeholders and the people of the Region. We pursue these objectives through the development of our human, technical, and financial resources, and through our investment policies, all combined with the warmest customer relations and service.
To establish a strong international financial group capable of meeting 21st-century challenges and to contribute significantly to the growth and development of the nation and the region.
The Hand-in-Hand Mutual Fire Insurance Company Limited is living testimony that there’s a silver lining behind every dark cloud. In 1864 Georgetown was a rapidly expanding wooden city; as such, the fear of fire was always present. Unfortunately, that fear was realized when two disastrous fires occurred on April 3rd and July 4th; crippling the commercial area of Georgetown which would amount to approximately one billion dollars in losses at present day value. As a result, expatriate companies decided to double their already expensive premium rates of 3% to 6% of the sum insured.
Consequently, a group of local businessmen collaborated and established The Hand In Hand Mutual Fire Insurance Company Limited on October 25th 1865, although the first policy was issued six days before. However, expatriate businesses refused to insure with Hand In Hand for the first five years. Monies were raised for social activities and mortgages were granted, which provided individual relief. Millions of dollars remained in Guyana as an alternative method of investment was utilized.
On August 10th 1878, the foundation stone was laid at the north east corner of the company’s greatest achievements: the Head Office building. The building enhanced the beauty of Georgetown. To this date, some of the original furniture still remains in the Boardroom. Similarly, additional office space was constructed during the 1970’s; and in 1984 a new building was completed, adjoining the original, at the corner of Robb Street and the Avenue of the Republic.
The Company survived three great fires: the Werk-en-Rust fire of 1913, the Georgetown fire of 1945 and the 1962 fires precipitated by riots. After the 1945 fire, the company made no profits and entered into reinsurance treaties with overseas reinsurers. Nevertheless, the company has managed to grow significantly; from just four employees in 1879 to over 150 employees currently and eighteen offices throughout Guyana.
In order to maintain its innovativeness and lead the insurance industry, the Company accepted fire and general insurance from all diverse groups without any biasness. In the 1870s before the company reinsured and only provided coverage for a limited number of risks per block, the Board considered the formation of the British Guiana and Trinidad Mutual Fire Insurance Company in 1880 and the Demerara Mutual Life Assurance Company in 1891. Those companies were formed by some of Hand In Hand Directors with the expectation that they would fulfill the demands of an expanding market. However, On June 23rd, 1966 Hand-in-Hand inaugurated a new Life Company as an independent and fully owned subsidiary to coincide with the country’s Independence.
In 1992 the Company entered both the Motor Insurance and Marine Insurance markets. In 1999, the Company purchased majority shares in The Guyana Cooperative Insurance Service (GCIS) and in 2002, The GNCB Trust Company.
The Hand-in-Hand Mutual Fire Insurance Company Ltd is solely mutual which means that our company is owned entirely by its policyholders and therefore does not have any shareholders.
Georgetown was a rapidly expanding wooden city; as such, the fear of fire was always present. Unfortunately, that fear was realised when two disastrous fires occurred on April 3rd and July 4th, crippling Georgetown’s commercial area and resulting in approximately one billion dollars in losses at present-day value. As a result, expatriate companies decided to double their already expensive premium rates, which ranged from 3% to 6% of the sum insured.
A group of local businessmen collaborated and established The Hand In Hand Mutual Fire Insurance Company Limited on October 25th 1865, although the first policy was issued six days before. However, expatriate businesses refused to insure with Hand In Hand for the first five years. Monies were raised for social activities and mortgages were granted, which provided individual relief. Millions of dollars remained in Guyana as an alternative method of investment was utilized.
The foundation stone was laid at the northeast corner of the company’s greatest achievement: the Head Office building. The building enhanced Georgetown’s beauty. To this date, some of the original furniture still remains in the Boardroom. Similarly, additional office space was constructed during the 1970’s; and in 1984, a new building was completed, adjoining the original, at the corner of Robb Street and the Avenue of the Republic
The Company survived three great fires: the Werk-en-Rust fire of 1913, the Georgetown fire of 1945 and the 1962 fires precipitated by riots. After the 1945 fire, the company made no profits and entered into reinsurance treaties with overseas reinsurers.
On June 23rd, 1966 Hand-in-Hand inaugurated a new Life Company as an independent and fully owned subsidiary to coincide with the country’s Independence.
Hand In Hand Mutual Fire Insurance Company Limited is the longest-established property insurer in Guyana and is the founding member of the Hand In Hand Group of Companies and comprises: The Hand-in-Hand Mutual Fire Insurance Co. Ltd. (HIHF), Hand-in-Hand Mutual Life Assurance Co. Ltd. (HIHL), Hand-in-Hand Trust Corporation Inc. (HIHT), GCIS Inc, Hand-in-Hand Investments Inc. and Frandec & Co. (Insurance) Inc.
I’m Amar, owner of Movement Auto Rental & Bus Service, and I’ve been with Hand in Hand for almost 20 years. Their team is always hospitable, friendly, and professional, which gives me confidence and peace of mind. I feel secure keeping my insurance with them. I also value the discounts, complimentary extension coverages, and convenient payment options. Over the years, we’ve built a strong relationship, and I highly recommend Hand in Hand to anyone or any business seeking reliable insurance in Guyana.
I was impressed with the quality of service received; the staff was very knowledgeable and efficient. I have peace of mind when insuring with Hand in Hand because they not only offer affordable premiums, but reliable coverage as well. This Company also gives back a lot to communities. I feel as though I am a part of a greater cause by providing a helping hand to those in need. It’s great to do business with such a company and I highly recommend Hand in Hand for all your insurance needs.
Hand in Hand provides exceptional service. Their staff are informative, approachable, and willing to go the extra mile to assist. I’ve found their insurance to be affordable, especially the Householder’s Comprehensive Insurance I recently purchased. The process was clear and well guided, and I appreciated how everything was explained. I’m looking forward to using their convenient renewal services, and I intend to continue doing business with this company because of the support and value they provide.
I decided to join Hand in Hand Insurance, because I was looking for a provider that truly understands my needs and priorities as a driver. Their personalised approach helped me choose coverage suited to my circumstances, ensuring I would receive protection tailored to my specific circumstances. Their strong customer service gave me confidence I’d have support throughout the process and whenever I need assistance. It also felt like a smart decision for my budget, offering protection and peace of mind at an affordable cost.
