What to check when comparing UK car insurance

Understand UK car insurance cover

This guide explains points to check when reviewing car insurance in the United Kingdom. Prices and available cover depend on your circumstances and the insurer; a lower premium is not guaranteed.

Compare the cover, not just the price

Third-party cover protects against liability for injury to others or damage to their property. Third-party, fire and theft adds cover for your car if it is stolen or damaged by fire. Comprehensive insurance also covers accidental damage to your own car, subject to the policy terms.

Less cover does not always mean a lower price: comprehensive insurance can cost less than third-party insurance. Compare quotes and exclusions before choosing.

Source: MoneyHelper: car insurance explained.

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Check extras and the total excess

Review breakdown assistance, courtesy-car cover and other extras before paying for them. Check what is included and whether you already have equivalent cover.

A higher voluntary excess may reduce the premium, but you must be able to afford it alongside any compulsory excess. For illustration, a £200 compulsory excess plus a £300 voluntary excess totals £500 where both apply. This is an example, not a quote.

Source: MoneyHelper: excess and optional cover.

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Give accurate mileage and driver details

Estimate your annual mileage in miles using your actual driving needs. Tell your insurer if your expected mileage changes; do not deliberately understate it to obtain a lower quote.

The main driver must be the person who uses the car most. Naming someone else as the main driver to reduce the price is known as fronting and can invalidate cover. Check that every person who will drive has appropriate insurance.

Review your policy wording, schedule and certificate of motor insurance for the permitted drivers and vehicle use. Ask your insurer about anything unclear before driving.

Source: Motor Insurers’ Bureau: checking your insurance cover.

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Report accidents even if you do not claim

You must tell your insurer about an accident even if you do not intend to make a claim. Follow the notification requirements in your policy. Deciding to pay for repairs yourself does not remove this responsibility.

Source: GOV.UK: what to do after an accident.

Review your renewal

Compare the renewal offer with alternatives using the same details and level of cover. Check the total price, excesses and exclusions. A no-claims discount does not guarantee that your renewal premium will stay the same.

Source: MoneyHelper: renewals and no-claims discounts.

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Request information by email

Have a question about this guide? Send an information request using the form below and provide the email address you would like us to reply to.

This website provides general information. The form does not display live insurance quotes or let you purchase a policy. For a quote, eligibility checks or cover, contact an insurance provider or broker directly.

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