How to Renew Car Insurance

Your renewal notice shows the price and terms offered for the next policy period. Check it rather than allowing the policy to renew unread: the vehicle, drivers, use, mileage, excesses and optional extras may no longer match what you need.

Check the renewal date

Note when the existing cover ends and whether renewal is automatic. If you do not want to renew, follow the insurer’s cancellation instructions in time. Cancelling the payment alone may not cancel the policy.

Correct the details

Update the address, occupation, annual mileage, overnight parking, named drivers, convictions, claims and vehicle use as required. Ask the insurer when a change must be reported if the wording is unclear.

Compare equivalent policies

Use the same accurate information for each quotation. Compare the total premium, compulsory and voluntary excesses, courtesy-car terms, breakdown or legal extras, cancellation fees and important exclusions.

Annual or monthly payment

Monthly instalments commonly involve a credit agreement and interest. Compare the total amount payable with the annual price and check affordability before choosing.

Avoid a gap in cover

If changing provider, make sure the new policy begins when the old one ends. Check the certificate before driving. Keep the cancellation or lapse confirmation and proof of any no-claims discount.