How to Switch Your Home Insurance Provider in the UK: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Jamie Reid - Credit, Loans & Everyday Money Writer
- Mar 5
- 5 min read
Updated: May 25
Stuck paying too much for your home insurance? You're not alone. Many UK homeowners stay with the same insurer year after year — often out of convenience — but end up missing out on better cover, cheaper rates, or both.
The good news is switching your home insurance provider is easier than you might think — and it can often lead to significant savings without sacrificing protection.
In this guide, we walk you through exactly how to compare, switch, and save on your buildings and contents insurance without hassle or risk.
Why You Should Consider Switching Home Insurance
Even if you're happy with your current provider, it's worth shopping around at renewal time. Here's why:
Loyalty rarely rewards — new customers often get better deals
Premiums tend to creep up over time
You may be over-insured or underinsured
Your current provider may not offer optional extras you now need
Switching could save £100 or more per year
Whether your circumstances have changed or your provider's price has increased, it pays to review your options.When Can You Switch Home Insurance?
You can switch:
At renewal (the easiest and most common time)
Before your policy ends (but check for cancellation fees)
After a change in circumstances (e.g. home improvements, moving house)
Most people switch when their renewal notice arrives, typically around 3–4 weeks before the policy expires.
Step-by-Step Guide to Switching Providers
Step 1: Review Your Current Cover
Before shopping around, know exactly what you’re currently paying for. Check:
Annual premium
Buildings and/or contents cover levels
Excess amounts
Optional extras (e.g. accidental damage, legal cover, home emergency)
Renewal date
Cancellation terms and fees
This helps you make like-for-like comparisons when reviewing new quotes.
Step 2: Use a Comparison Site to Search for Deals
Comparison sites are your best friend when switching — they pull quotes from dozens of insurers in seconds.
Popular UK sites include:
Compare the Market
MoneySuperMarket
Quotezone
Tips for comparing:
Adjust your excess to see how it affects your premium
Ensure policy limits match your current needs
Filter results by customer rating, not just price
Take note of any extras included (or excluded)
You may also want to check direct-only providers like Direct Line, which aren't always listed on comparison sites.
Step 3: Choose a Provider Based on Value, Not Just Price
Don’t just go for the cheapest quote. Look at:
What’s covered as standard
What’s excluded
Optional add-ons available
Customer reviews and claims service
Whether the policy offers new-for-old replacements
Flexibility to adjust your cover later
A policy that costs £20 more per year could save you hundreds in the event of a claim.
Step 4: Buy the New Policy and Set a Start Date
Once you’ve chosen your new insurer:
Set the start date for when your current policy ends
Take note of your new policy number and documents
Set a reminder for the start date so you’re fully covered
Make sure the new policy is in place before cancelling the old one — you don’t want any coverage gaps.
Step 5: Cancel Your Existing Policy (If It Doesn’t Auto-Cancel)
Some providers automatically cancel when you don’t renew, but many do not. To cancel safely:
Contact your existing insurer before the renewal date
Request confirmation in writing
Check for cancellation fees (usually only apply if switching mid-term)
If paying by Direct Debit, don’t stop payments until the insurer confirms cancellation
Important: Cancelling your Direct Debit alone does not cancel your policy. You must notify your provider properly.
Step 6: Set a Reminder for Next Year’s Renewal
Insurers may try to auto-renew your new policy at a higher price. Set a reminder a month before renewal to:
Re-check your deal
Compare again
Consider switching once more
Shopping around annually is the best way to lock in savings over time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Switching
Forgetting to cancel your old policy — can lead to double cover or continued charges
Switching before comparing cover properly — you could lose key protection
Overlapping policies — creates unnecessary costs
Letting auto-renewal kick in — often more expensive
Not checking exclusions or excess levels — cheap doesn’t always mean better
Can You Switch Home Insurance Mid-Term?
Yes, but consider:
You may be charged a cancellation fee (typically £25–£50)
If you’ve claimed during the policy, refunds may be limited
You might still save more overall if switching to a cheaper policy
Always run the numbers — if your current premium is significantly higher, switching mid-policy might still be worth it.
Unique Tip: Bundle Buildings and Contents for a Better Deal
If you currently have separate buildings and contents policies, consider switching to a combined policy. Many insurers:
Offer discounts for bundling
Make managing cover easier
Simplify claims for damage affecting both structure and possessions
Just be sure the combined policy provides the same level of protection you previously had separately.
FAQs
Does switching home insurance affect my credit score?
No. Shopping around and switching doesn’t impact your credit rating. However, paying monthly may involve a soft credit check.
Can I switch if I’ve made a recent claim?
Yes, but your options may be limited and premiums could be higher. Always disclose previous claims honestly.
Do I lose my no-claims discount when switching?
No — you can transfer it to your new provider. Ask your current insurer for proof of your no-claims history.
How long does it take to switch?
Once you buy your new policy, cover can begin immediately or on a future date. The full switch process usually takes less than an hour.
Should I use an insurance broker instead of switching online?
Brokers can help in complex situations (e.g. high-value homes or non-standard properties). But for most people, comparison sites are quicker and more cost-effective.
Final Thoughts
Switching your home insurance provider is one of the simplest ways to save money without reducing your protection. By reviewing your policy annually, using comparison tools, and avoiding auto-renewals, you can take control of your cover and ensure you're getting the best value possible.
Always compare policies based on what’s included, not just the price. With a few smart steps, switching home insurance could leave you with more cash in your pocket and better peace of mind.
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