According to Tesco Finance the cost of not changing home insurance companies last year totalled GBP26 million.
The study found that almost two thirds of people remained with their existing insurance providers when it came to renewal time, even though almost half of them saw the cost increase over the previous year. For around 4 million of them the increase was more than the level of inflation, said a Tesco Finance spokesman, even though only a small number of these had increased their cover or made a claim.
The advice that comes out loud and clear from Tesco is that everyone should at least get a couple of alternative quotes at renewal time to make sure they are getting the best home insurance deal available.
An agreement regarding flood insurance between the government and the Association of British Insurers has been supported by AA Insurance.
The agreement will ensure there is a much better understanding of the risk of flooding in different areas as well as improving the accessibility to home insurance for households on low incomes. There will also be changes to the planning system said A Insurance to ensure developments are not placed in areas where the risk of flooding is high.
A spokesman from AA Insurance said that providers of home insurance, like themselves, are well aware of the greater risk of flooding that faces the UK and are structuring their premiums accordingly. Although the premiums will be higher than previously the good news is that cover will still be provided, something that was a concern previously when it was suggested some areas would be uninsurable.
Tesco Finance are telling UK consumers that there are savings to be made on insurance products, it is down to people to go and get them.
Take as an example home insurance renewals. 44 percent of consumers found their premiums had gone up, but nearly two thirds of people then stayed with their existing insurer rather than looking for an alternative at a lower price. It is not difficult to change insurers said a Tesco Finance spokesman, it simply needs a little motivation to get started.
The different comparison options available through the internet can really help with this process, making it quick and easy to see policies side by side. Tesco Finance recommend all consumers should do this and see if they can reduce their outgoings.