General Policy Questions
1. What types of car insurance are available in the UK?
There are three main types:
- Third Party Only – Covers damage to other vehicles and injuries to others, but not your own car.
- Third Party, Fire and Theft – Adds cover for your car if it’s stolen or damaged by fire.
- Comprehensive – Includes all of the above, plus accidental damage to your own vehicle.
2. Do I legally need car insurance in the UK?
Yes. It is a legal requirement to have at least Third Party Only car insurance if you drive or park a vehicle on public roads.
3. What is the difference between the levels of cover?
- Third Party Only: Minimum legal cover.
- Third Party, Fire and Theft: Adds cover for fire damage or theft of your car.
- Comprehensive: Covers accidental damage to your car, regardless of who’s at fault.
Quotes & Purchasing
4. How is my car insurance premium calculated?
Premiums are based on factors like your:
- Age and driving history
- Car make and model
- Postcode
- Annual mileage
- Type of cover
- No-claims discount (NCD)
- Occupation and usage of the vehicle
5. Why do you need 24hrs to give me a quote?
- As an independent advisors, we compare a wide panel of insurers across the market to secure the most competitive quote tailored to your needs.
6. What is a No-Claims Discount (NCD)?
- It’s a discount applied to your premium for every year you don’t make a claim. The more claim-free years you have, the bigger the discount—sometimes up to 70%.
7. Can I add other drivers to my policy?
- Yes, most policies allow you to add named drivers. Their age, driving record, and claims history can affect your premium.
Policy Management
8. How do I make changes to my policy?
You can usually update your policy through your online account or by contacting customer service. Changes may affect your premium.
9. Can I cancel my car insurance policy?
As an independent advisors, we compare a wide panel of insurers across the market to secure the most competitive quote tailored to your needs.
10. What happens when my policy is due for renewal?
- You’ll get a renewal notice a few weeks before your policy ends. You can choose to renew automatically, manually, or switch providers.
Claims and Accidents
11. How do I make a claim?
Call your insurer’s claims line as soon as possible. Provide your policy number, accident details, and any third-party info. Many insurers also offer online claims services.
12. Will making a claim affect my premium?
Yes. Making a claim—especially if you’re at fault—can increase your premium and may affect your No-Claims Discount unless it’s protected.
13. What should I do after a car accident?
- Make sure everyone is safe
- Exchange details with other parties involved
- Take photos if safe to do so
- Notify your insurer as soon as possible
Legal and Documentation
14. What is a Certificate of Motor Insurance?
It’s proof that you’re legally insured to drive your car. You’ll receive it when your policy starts or renews.
15. What is the Motor Insurance Database (MID)?
The MID is a national record of all insured vehicles. Police use it to check if a car is insured.
16. Is my insurance valid for driving abroad?
Many UK insurers provide basic EU cover, often for up to 90 days. Some policies may require a Green Card or additional fees for extended cover.
Payment & Discounts
17. Can I pay monthly or annually?
Yes. Paying annually is often cheaper, while monthly payments help spread the cost but may include interest.
18. What is an insurance excess?
It’s the amount you agree to pay toward a claim. There’s usually a compulsory and an optional voluntary excess.
19. Are there discounts for safe or low-mileage drivers?
Some insurers offer telematics (black box) or low-mileage discounts. Always ask or check when getting a quote.
Special Circumstances
20. Can I insure a leased or financed car?
Yes. In fact, fully comprehensive cover is often required by the lease or finance provider.
21. Can I insure a car as a learner driver or new driver?
Yes. Some insurers offer specialist policies for learner drivers, while others insure provisional licence holders on a short-term or annual basis.