If the MOU is reported missing, the assured may claim for a total loss when three months have elapsed from the date on which the MOU was last heard of. If the MOU is reported missing under circumstances that give reason to assume that it is icebound and will subsequently be recovered, the time-limit is twelve months.
If the MOU has been abandoned by the crew at sea without its subsequent fate being known, the assured may claim for a total loss when three months have elapsed from the day when the MOU was abandoned. If it was abandoned because it was icebound, the time-limit is twelve months. If the MOU has been seen after being abandoned, the time-limit runs from the day on which it was last seen.
If, before expiry of the time-limit mentioned in sub-clauses 1 and 2, it is clear that the assured will not recover the MOU, he may immediately claim for a total loss. If the time-limit has expired and the assured has submitted a claim for a total loss, the insurer may not reject the claim because the MOU is subsequently recovered.