Insurance

[Quizmonster]

Yes, I know there's a Finance category on AB and that websites such as moneysupermarket exist, but I was hoping for a more personal response. I wondered whether anyone could recommend a specific company for my soon-to-be renewed Building & Contents insurance. Any especially good deals out there?

[Clanad]

Well, Q... I don’t have a solution, but I do admire the problem.... having said that, I, too, am in the midst of renewing home owner's insurance. The problem I have is that I've been with the same company for years but suddenly, a few months ago, after several years of no claims my deductible amount was raised from $500 to $1,000. After visiting with my agent and expressing my displeasure I find that, nationwide here, insurance companies are finding ways of increasing their bottom line. One way, short of raising rates (which are governed by each individual State) is to raise the deductible. Most other companies I've looked at have done the same thing.

I'm told that this is taking place in the world wide market as well, since so many of the top companies have experienced massive losses...

[gingejbee]

Which? Recommended Insurers (in order) : NFU Mutual, Hiscox, John Lewis, M&S, RIAS, LV. If you are over fifty, RIAS is particularly good (you HAVE to be over 50 with them)

[Quizmonster]

Hi, C. I take it that what you call a "deductible amount" is what we in the UK call an "excess"...ie the amount you undertake to pay yourself for loss/damage before the insurance company contributes. It seems that doubling that is rather excessive, but - given the world's current financial circumstances - I suppose it's to be expected.
I hope we both find what we are looking for!

Thanks for that list, Gingejbee. I've copied it and will certainly make use of it. Cheers