Insurance companies may attempt a class action to recoup their losses from the Hemel Hempstead fuel depot blast, experts have predicted.
Alexander Forbes and Ashworth-Mairs expected insurers to seek compensation for losses from the plant owners, Chevron-Texaco and Total Oil, if either company is proved negligent.
Andrew Dear, Ashworth-Mairs technical services director, said: "If someone has been negligent, insurers and victims may get together to pursue a collective action against the owners."
Although the total loss from the explosion has not been confirmed, Alexander Forbes has estimated losses to be £200m.
David Way, Alexander Forbes executive director international division - energy, said the estimate was based on potential claims for the plant, fuel stocks, damage to the industrial estate, business interruption, households and injuries.
Way added: "Texaco and Total are insured through a mutual insurer Oil Insurance Ltd. Any liability would be covered through Oil Casualty Insurance Ltd."
It is understood that loss adjuster Crawford has been appointed to handle the claim on behalf of the plant, but the company would not comment on its involvement.
