Thanks for the reply Brendan,
Yes it's a very interesting question, surprised i could find no other discussions around it on the forum.
On paper, the illness commenced after joining so it should not be classed as a pre-existing condition.
Laya's T&C's say:How long before you can make a claim for any new disease, illness or injury which began or the symptoms of which began after membership started?
26 Weeks
I know insurer's can be difficult at times so hoping to have an understanding before they're called! Better to be armed with knowledge!