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Insurance | Finance

Aviva offers small motor traders more choice

Aviva has introduced a new offering for small motor traders. Available to motor traders with up to six named drivers, businesses can now purchase either a Combined or a Road Risks only contract, providing the flexibility that many small businesses need when arranging their insurance.

Householders fail to protect from fire damage

Almost half of all householders are still failing to take basic steps to protect the home from fire, a leading home insurer has found. Data from Halifax Home Insurance reveals that only 54% of people have installed smoke alarms in their property, and less than one in five (16%) regularly tests their alarm.

Government urged to speed electronic insurance certificates

AA Insurance has called on national and local authorities to go easy on drivers whose documents may be caught up in the postal strike.

Having a smashing time on the ski slopes?

Nearly 2.8 million will be hitting the ski slopes this winter season, according to new figures from esure travel insurance - a 50 per cent rise on last year. Yet many Brits could end up facing huge medical bills in the event of an accident by not buying a travel insurance policy and making sure they're covered for all winter pursuits.

Insurer offers up to 45% off plant premiums

In a bid to combat the growing issue of constructional plant theft, Allianz Engineering is offering significant premium discounts, of up to 45 per cent, and generous theft excess reductions to clients who show a proactive approach to plant protection.

Average age of child on parent’s car insurance is 31

In the past year the average age of a child named as a second driver on their parent's car insurance policy has shot up from 25 to 31 years old, according to new research from uSwitch.com. As the recession takes its toll on the Bank of Mum and Dad, 10 million drivers (39%) have a second named driver on their policy and 2.5 million (10%) of these are offspring.

Insurer warns Halloween could be the night from hell

Halloween could be the night from hell for millions of homeowners, warns Saga Home Insurance. Research by Saga reveals 3.6 million homeowners are likely to face damage caused by over enthusiastic tricksters this year. The average amount spent to repair damage is £117, but almost one in ten (7%) will have to spend more than £250. Last October, Saga Home Insurance experienced a 97% increase in claims and paid out in excess of £300,000 for vandalism caused by Halloween pranksters.

Be sure you are insured for a Bonfire Night bonanza

With Bonfire Night and fireworks extravaganzas just around the corner, moneysupermarket.com urges people to make sure their home insurance personal liability cover will insure them for any accidents.

Simplyhealth scoops another gong

Simplyhealth has won the title of Best Healthcare Cash Plan Provider at the Health Insurance Awards 2009.

Home insurance premiums rising

The cost of an annual home buildings insurance policy rose again for the sixth successive quarter, while the cost of contents cover has bounced up following recent falls according to the latest AA British Insurance Premium Index.

Unprecedented premium increases hit drivers hard

Car insurance premiums are rising faster than at any time over the past 15 years, according to the latest AA British Insurance Premium Index.

Petplan is awarded Which? Best Buy

Petplan, UK pet insurance provider has been selected as a Which? Best Buy. The independent consumer guide selected Petplan’s ‘Covered For Life’ policy that covers animals for accidents and illnesses, including reoccurring conditions, such as diabetes and glaucoma, year after year, as long as the policy is renewed annually.

Top ski insurance with Direct Travel Insurance

With autumn nearly over and heavy snow already falling in Austrian resort of Lech over the last few days, some will inevitably start to plan their next ski or snowboard holiday.

100% online car insurance helps drivers beat postal strike

This week's threatened postal strikes will cause frustration and delays for motorists waiting for their insurance documents to arrive so they can tax their cars - but swiftcover.com customers will be able to beat the postal chaos by accessing and downloading their insurance documents directly from the internet thanks to the insurer's 100% online service.

Don’t risk penalties - renew your insurance in good time

With postal strikes looming, specialist insurance broker Footman James is reminding customers how important it is to renew their vehicle insurance in good time to avoid penalty points, fines or having their vehicle impounded and crushed.

Travel cover crucial for half term getaways

Brits looking to escape the autumnal gloom with a half-term getaway should ensure they have adequate travel cover in place, says moneysupermarket.com - especially if they plan to take to the slopes.

Nationwide re-launches new life cover options for over 55s

Nationwide has announced the launch of the new Over 55s Life Cover Plan. The new plan has significant product enhancements specifically designed to meet the changing needs of customers and includes the introduction of a Funeral Benefit Option.

Halloween and Bonfire Night lead to rise in damage claims

AXA statistics reveal that the week of Halloween and Bonfire Night is the worst week of the year for malicious damage claims with 5th November topping the rankings for the whole year.

Aviva launch specialist electronic equipment cover

Aviva is to build on its success in the Engineering market with the introduction of specialist electronic equipment cover.

Home based businesses taking unnecessary risks

Many businesses based from home are running the risk of not being able to cover the cost of a crisis, with 28 per cent stating they have no form of business insurance at all, according to research by Direct Line for Business.

Eight weeks' worth of free car insurance from Direct Line

Direct Line has announced it is offering new customers eight weeks' worth of free car insurance. With the current financial climate tightening household budgets, Direct Line is focused on offering customers value for money when buying car insurance cover. This offer gives customers the same high-quality policy features, but at a discounted premium.

Holiday home Brits will be taking a risk this half term

This half term thousands of Brits will be heading abroad for a last chance to top up their tan before Christmas. However, new research from Gocompare.com reveals that a large percentage of travellers to second homes, either their own or a friend or family member's, have a shocking disregard for travel insurance.

Insurance providers fund fraudsters by hiking excess

As the insurance industry foots a £1.9 billion fraud bill and recent reports reveal a 44% increase in false claims, new research from uSwitch.com shows that providers are strategically recouping this money from consumers by hiking compulsory excess charges by almost a third (32%) in the last year. In addition, the number of drivers being hit with a compulsory excess fee of between £1,000 and £3,000 has increased almost tenfold from just 0.3% to 2.7%. Across the country, this means that in the event of an accident, drivers will now have have to pay their insurer an average of £170, a fee which has gone up by £41 from £129 since August 2008.

AXA PPP healthcare Dedicated Nurse for cancer patients

AXA PPP healthcare has launched a Dedicated Nurse service - providing personalised support and medical guidance by qualified nurses, free of charge, for all of its UK medical insurance customers diagnosed with cancer.

BIBA travel insurance to include financial failure protection

The British Insurance Brokers' Association's (BIBA) travel insurance policy ‘BIBA Protect' has been extended to protect independent travellers against the financial risk of airlines and end suppliers going into liquidation.

Unemployment an added insurance risk

As the official figure for unemployment reaches 2.47m, Confused.com warns that the UK's jobless could end up paying more for their home insurance. With unemployment at an all time high, many will be unaware of the knock-on effects the situation can have on other household finances that reach beyond the loss of earnings.

UK hotspots for car insurance theft claims revealed

Motorists in Chislehurst in Bromley and Wingate in Cleveland are revealed as the most likely in the UK to claim on their motor insurance for theft from their car or theft of their car, according to data from moneysupermarket.com.

Get ready for National Home Security Week

For those due to renew their home insurance soon or for those without it, National Home Security Week (19 October 2009 to 25 October 2009) is a good reminder of why no home should be without it. It is a perfect time to start shopping around for the best deals.

Don’t undervalue your wardrobe

Many people are seriously underestimating the value of their clothes, shoes and bags when calculating their home contents insurance, according to research from home insurer LV=.

PruProtect celebrates 2nd anniversary with Best Service award

PruProtect, the joint venture between Prudential and South African market leader, Discovery, is celebrating its first two years in the UK protection market with the following news:

Get £30 off car insurance when you fill up at TOTAL

TOTAL has partnered with swiftcover.com to give away £30 off car insurance when you buy at least 30 litres or more of its advanced fuel TOTAL EXCELLIUM (unleaded or diesel fuel).

Petpals Direct launches unique tenant pet insurance

Petpals Direct, the pet insurance specialist, has recently launched a new pet insurance policy that could make life easier for estate agents and letting agents across the UK. Perfect for smoothing deal-breaking situations where a landlord is not as keen on pets as the potential tenant, TenantCare Cat and TenantCare Dog insurance from Petpals Direct can be taken out by the pet-owner to insure against property damage the pet may cause to the rented accommodation.

Win pet food for a year with M&S Pet Insurance

Brits will spend more than £1.7billion on cat and dog food this year, and now M&S Money is giving pet owners a chance to win a years' supply of pet food.

Faking it’ Brits exposed

Credit-crunched Brits admit they would consider making a false home insurance claim, with many confessing they have successfully faked a claim already, according to research from moneysupermarket.com.

Gocompare.com launches pet insurance comparison

Gocompare.com has launched its pet insurance comparison service for cat and dog owners - the first true pet insurance comparison to be provided by any UK comparison site.

Crashing for cash

Desperate Brits are being driven to extreme measures behind the wheel because of the recession, according to moneysupermarket.com. Research from the UK's leading price comparison site reveals more than a million (1,020,000) motorists would consider staging a motor accident in order to make a claim on their insurance. Worryingly 340,000 motorists admit to having already successfully done so.

Direct Line offers third off home insurance

Direct Line is offering one-third off the cost of home insurance this autumn, when new customers buy buildings and contents policies together. Paying less for such an important purchase means homeowners can save money and still get protection for their home and possessions from a well-known, dependable company.

Accidents will happen - particularly in October

Motorists adjusting to darker days with the clocks going back and the onset of winter all add up to make October the worst month for car claims, Virgin Money Car Insurance figures show.

Autumn rut costs drivers deer

The AA has warned drivers to be alert to a serious hazard that peaks during October and could cost unwary drivers over £1,400: deer strikes.

Premium saving tips for young drivers

The dangers of driving without insurance have been highlighted by new industry statistics that suggest a record number of UK motorists - particular young drivers – are uninsured. But Adrian Flux, a leading car insurance specialist, says that cash-strapped young drivers who rely solely on the Internet to find insurance are missing out on numerous tips and tricks to reduce their premiums.

Identity burglary crimewave hits homeowners

One in seven burglaries last year was carried out solely in an attempt to steal the homeowner’s personal details a new report has found.

Students risk learning the hard way on theft

Thousands of students are heading off to university this month, but amongst all the excitement, they should spare a thought for their belongings, as halls of residence and flats can be an easy target for crime.

International health insurance products for Russian market

Leading Russian insurer, Ingosstrakh and Bupa International, the world's largest expatriate health insurer, has announced a partnership which brings together Ingosstrakh's local knowledge in Russia with Bupa's global healthcare expertise.

AA Insurance urges drivers to Stay Insured

AA Insurance welcomes the Motor Insurers' Bureau (MIB) ‘Stay Insured' campaign, which is aimed at drivers who may be thinking about letting their insurance lapse on renewal or cancel it because of financial difficulties.

Uninsured drivers need harsher punishment

With insurance premiums for younger drivers sky high, and one in five people getting behind the wheel without motor insurance, Brits believe young motorists caught driving without insurance should face tougher penalties, according to research from moneysupermarket.com.

Sainsbury's Contents Insurance offers cover for students

New research from Sainsbury's Home Insurance reveals that the typical undergraduate each has an average of £3,548 worth of belongings in their student accommodation. The high figure placed on the value of their belongings reflects the average student's typical possessions, which includes not just high-tech items such as laptops, computers, iPods, DVD players, digital cameras, TVs and Hi-Fis, mobile phones, but also other expensive items including jewellery, sports equipment, course textbooks and bicycles, as well as the more mundane everyday items such as books, CDs, toasters and kettles.

Getting married can cut cost of car insurance

With the average wedding now costing nearly £16,000, tying the knot can lead to a big hole in your finances. However, getting married or entering into a civil partnership can actually save you money on your motoring insurance. According to online insurer swiftcover.com, adding your spouse to your car insurance policy can save you up to 20% compared to your singleton counterparts.

Unemployment: an added insurance risk

Confused.com has warned that unemployed people in the UK could end up paying more for their home insurance. With unemployment in the UK at its highest for over a decade, many will be unaware of the knock-on effects the situation can have on other household finances that reach beyond the loss of earnings.

Specialist car insurers may not always give the best deal

With the motor insurance renewals boom period in full swing and many drivers looking to get the best deal, moneysupermarket.com warns that specialist insurers for women drivers may not always provide the best value option for motorists.

Gap year travellers get covered

Direct Travel Insurance has recorded a 25% increase in the sale of Backpacker policies from July 2008 to July 2009.

Drug driving can double car insurance premiums

With Brits harbouring a dangerously casual attitude to driving whilst under the influence of drugs, Confused.com reminds drivers of the consequences of being caught out.

Newlyweds fail to review home contents cover

New research reveals that over half (53%) of professional couples in the UK risk losing valuable wedding gifts and possessions by failing to tell their insurer about new belongings once they have tied the knot.

moneysupermarket.com updates car insurance offering

New research from Sainsbury's Loans reveals that there are currently just four lenders, of which it is one, offering an APR of less than 8% on unsecured loans on loan amounts between £5,000 and £15,000.

Travel insurance priority for fans heading to World Cup finals

England football fans heading to the World Cup finals should not wait until next summer to buy travel insurance, according to M&S Money.

Drop in volume and value of home insurance claims

Insurers received a staggering 527,000 home insurance claims during the first half of 2008, but this fell to 373,000 for the same period in 2009, according to the Sainsbury's Home Insurance Claims Index, which tracks the volume and value of claims on a six monthly basis. Furthermore, the average size of claim during these two periods was £918 and £735 respectively.

When rockers insure their rollers (and smart cars)

Hell-raising punk icon Iggy Pop famously got himself ‘swiftcovered’ in adverts for insurer swiftcover.com – but being a rock star doesn’t mean that insuring your ‘ride’ needs to be expensive.

Pet insurance more crucial than ever for pet owners

Having pet insurance is more crucial than ever in the current economic climate with more than a quarter (26 per cent) of pet owners polled struggling to find the money to pay unexpected vet bills.

Fire claims continue to rise

Statistics from the Association of British Insurers show that fire claims rose again by a further 20% between the first half of 2007 and the first half of this year, with arson contributing prominently to the cost.

Saga launches Motorcycle Insurance

A new study by Saga Insurance reveals that motorcycling is big business amongst the over 50s, 21% of all motorcyclists are aged over 502 with almost 700,000 owning a bike and a further 1 million yearning to be a biker. That's a total of over 1.7 million people with a thirst for the open road.

Older people get raw deal for travel insurance

Older people may be getting less holiday insurance than they bargained for if they opt for the travel cover offered within packaged accounts offered by some high street banks, reveals analysis by Saga Travel Insurance.

M&S Premier travel insurance covers independent travellers

As another airline operating from the UK files for bankruptcy, M&S travel insurance asks travellers to make sure they are covered if an airline or tour operator goes bust.

Back to School means back into the wallets for parents

The average child's school bag can contain nearly £400 worth of kit, supplies, and electronics, according to a survey by Direct Line Home Insurance. Today's school bags contain items of much greater expense compared to previous generations, and the cost of replacing just a few of these things, if lost, can easily cost hundreds of pounds.

Gym kit and guitars need proper protection warns AXA

As children head back to school over the next week, parents are being advised by insurance giant AXA, to count the cost of their children's schoolbags and make sure they protect their possessions away from home.

ASDA to increase life cover among over-50s

ASDA has announced plans to triple over the next three years the number of customers covered by its over 50s life insurance. The supermarket chain has unveiled a brand new Over 50s Life Cover product, developed for ASDA by mutual insurance group LV=.

Shop around online for the best car insurance deal

Motorists are set to waste £141 each or £9.4bn collectively by sticking with their existing insurer and not shopping around for car insurance, according to moneysupermarket.com.

Sainsbury’s offers three months free pet insurance

Sainsbury's Finance has announced that it is offering three months free pet insurance for new customers who purchase a policy by 6th October 2009, meaning they won't be charged at all for the last three months of the first year of their policy. The deal also includes a further 20% discount (until 6th October) for customers purchasing online, and £30 worth of Sainsbury's shopping vouchers for those who are claim-free on renewal.

Over 50s more worried than ever about being burgled

The UK's over 50s population are more concerned than ever about being burgled, according to a new research report from specialist insurer RIAS. Latest figures show that 23% of over 50s are more concerned about having their home being broken into than they were a year ago, equivalent to 4.1m people.

Be sure to make student savvy savings this academic year

As the dust settles on this summer's batch of A-Levels results, those students lucky enough to obtain university places this year will no doubt have concerns over financing their studies and lifestyle. moneysupermarket.com urges parents and students to be savvy with their money when considering contents and motor insurance options.

Brits risk forking out thousands in travel claims

Age Concern Insurance Services warns older people to ensure they have travel insurance when holidaying either abroad or in the UK, to avoid unnecessary pay outs.

Savvy motorists cut costs not cover

Most Britons are finding savvy ways to cut their motoring costs in the recession without taking risks with their car insurance cover according to new findings released from eco car insurance provider ibuyeco.

British pets face Bank Holiday blues

We may be a nation of animal lovers but a new survey has revealed that pets should watch out for their owner's antics this bank holiday as they could be hurt by traditional summer sports and activities.

1 in 5 young drivers has no car insurance

AA Insurance has expressed concern about the number of young uninsured drivers highlighted by a report published by the Motor Insurers' Bureau (MIB).

Nationwide launches home insurance offer

Nationwide Building Society has announced a new home insurance offer. With effect from 1 September 2009, customers buying the Society's 5-Star rated buildings and contents insurance together will receive a 20% discount now and a 20% discount off next year's premium on renewal. In addition to this, customers can also benefit from an extra £20 off the premium in the first year if their main current account is held with Nationwide and the application is made in a branch or over the phone.

Brits risk Bank Holiday hell by travelling without insurance

This coming weekend will see nearly two million Britons heading to sunnier climes, according to new research from Lloyds TSB Added Value Accounts. However, their Bank Holiday heaven could quickly become their worst nightmare if they take flight without the appropriate holiday cover.

Neighbourhood nightmares over pesky pets

Neighbourly relations are being put to the test across the UK because of irritating pets, according to new research.

More Aviva UK Health customers can benefit from Back-Up

Aviva has announced that their award winning Back-Up service is now available to its individual and small group private health insurance customers.

Benefits of EHIC pass by majority of Brits

More than half of Brits (51 per cent) do not know the benefits of having the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) when holidaying in Europe, according to research by moneysupermarket.com.

M&S Premier insurance covers uni students' bikes

Almost a quarter of student cyclists at UK universities have been the victim of a bike thief, according to a survey by M&S home insurance.

Summer months can prove hazardous for dogs

A pet advice line has been dealing with calls from dog owners whose pets have been injured or become ill because of summertime hazards, according to M&S pet insurance.

Festival goers urged to protect possessions

Almost 20 million (39 per cent) of us are planning to go to or have already been to a festival or outdoor event this summer, putting £2.3 billion worth of personal possessions at risk, according to research from Post Office Insurance.

Healthier and wealthier

Aviva today announces the launch of MyHealthCounts - an innovative enhancement to its individual private health insurance policies. The initiative not only encourages customers to improve their wellbeing, but could also help them cut the costs of their private health insurance by around £180 per year.

Motorists avoid claiming fear of losing no-claims bonus

More than one third (38%) of motorists are so concerned about losing their no-claims bonus and incurring higher premiums, they avoid making car insurance claims altogether, according to findings from Confused.com.

Saga's student cover provides cover for digital downloads

With A-Level results out this week, and many people off to university in the autumn, it is important to put measures in place to protect the one in 3 students that fall victim to crime at University each year. With most student digs equipped with TVs, DVD players and iPods, it is little wonder this happens, especially as replacement costs for these items alone, and a collection of just twenty CDs or DVDs, could be as much as £1,000, not to mention the cost of replacing downloaded digital music, that many not even be covered by other insurers.

Ensure your home is protected this bank holiday

The August bank holiday is fast approaching and many Brits will be using the opportunity to go away for a long weekend.

Saga preserves No Claim Discount for vandalism victims

From today Saga Motor Insurance will preserve its policyholders' No Claim Discount in the event of a claim for car vandalism damage, offering increased financial protection for motorists over 50.

Proposals could lead to increases in car insurance premiums

AA Insurance is concerned that proposals to allow police to issue fixed penalty notices for careless driving could trivialise the offence and lead to a sharp increase in the number of fixed penalty notices issued and consequent increases in car insurance premiums.

Travellers seek financial protection cover for Legacy Airlines

ProtectMyHoliday.com, the consumer financial failure website for the travel market, announce a sharp increase in demand for protection against the failure of established ‘Legacy’ Carriers.

Fully comp cheaper than third-party only

Young motorists opting for third-party only motor insurance in a bid to save money may find that this is no longer the way to cut the cost of their premiums, according to moneysupermarket.com.

Homeowners making structural changes must inform insurer

Up to 3.27 million (13%) of British homeowners intend to undertake some sort of major structural work on their home in the next 12 months, research from Sainsbury's Home Insurance reveals. This figure is down by 39% on 2008 when a fifth (21%) of homeowners said they planned to make structural changes over the upcoming year.

UK hotspots for theft and burglary revealed

Homes in London and Nottingham were the most likely in the UK to make a claim for theft or burglary on their home insurance, according to research from moneysupermarket.com.

Mind the gap (year)

With A-Level results out next week (20 August) and many students jetting off on a much anticipated gap year, moneysupermarket.com urges ‘gappers' to consider their insurance needs and not to travel uninsured.

Higher home excesses

Standard excesses in home insurance policies have increased over the past 12 months according to independent financial research company Defaqto's latest report into the market.

Don't give burglars an open invitation

As the hot weather continues, Halifax Home Insurance reminds homeowners to keep doors and windows closed to avoid giving burglars a window of opportunity.

Legal & General new over 50s life insurance plans

Legal & General is launching three new guaranteed acceptance life insurance plans for the over 50s. All three Over 50s plans are only available direct from Legal & General online, by post or over the phone. The plans are available to anyone aged between 50 and 80 and applicants are guaranteed to be accepted for cover. Monthly premiums stop aged 90 although cover will automatically continue until death. The benefit and premiums for the Increasing Plan and Funeral Plan are reviewable annually in line with inflation, as measured by the Retail Price Index. However, policyholders can choose to freeze their sum assured at any time and not increase it any further. The Funeral Plan covers the cost of a cremation funeral, provided through Dignity, the UK's largest funeral plan provider.

Saga Car Insurance offers £1,000 personal belongings cover

A quarter of motorists may find they are not covered for the full value of their in car gadgets

Kids go free with new Virgin Money Travel Insurance

Virgin Money has launched a new range of travel insurance policies that packs more in as standard. The new range is designed to meet the needs of a variety of travellers such as families, backpackers, over 65’s, winter sports and adventure holidays with customized travel insurance options.

Uninsured drivers rife on the roads

The number of motorists getting behind the wheel uninsured has risen by a third (33 per cent) compared to 2008, according to research from moneysupermarket.com.

Landlords face insurance shortfall

Residential landlords are leaving themselves at risk by failing to take out adequate insurance products for their property business, research from Redbrick Landlords Insurance has revealed.

Holidaymakers shun travel insurance for EHIC card

Volvo Car UK has joined Causton CID’s leading crime-fighters in a mission to rid the fictional village of Midsomer of its murderous reputation.

Buildings premiums up, but contents cheaper

Home buildings insurance premiums continue to rise, according to the latest quarterly AA British Insurance Premium Index. But the latest figures in the quarterly benchmark study of insurance premium trends shows that home contents premiums are falling.

No sign of car insurance premium let-up

Car insurance premiums are rising at their fastest rate for nearly a decade and increased by more than 1 per cent per month over the past quarter, according to the latest benchmark AA British Insurance Premium Index.

Travellers advised to get covered - at home or away

At a time when Britons are facing increasing financial pressures on their everyday lives, almost a third of people (30%) are considering cutting back on their travel insurance, according to latest research from American Express Insurance Services.

Brits keep crucial insurance cover

Brits have revealed their sensible side when it comes to cutting back on insurance to save money, according to moneysupermarket.com, and would only cancel what could be considered as "unnecessary" policies.

Play it straight with swine flu

Swine flu – Travel insurance information from the ABI

The ABI has issued the following information for travel insurance customers about the cover that most policies offer if people are affected by swine flu:

Saga UK's most competitive car insurer

Saga tops the table of the most consistently competitive motor insurers according to moneysupermarket.com.

Motorists snub additional car cover

According to esure's in-house figures, there has been over a seven per cent fall in take up (7.2 per cent) of no claim discount protection since the start of the recession in autumn 2008. There has also been an 8.6 percent fall in the take-up of motor legal protection over the same period as motorists look for ways to save money and reduce their overall annual insurance premium. esure car insurance urges motorists not to scrimp on cover as it can be a false economy if the unexpected does happen.

Landlords urged not to cut back on insurance

Sainsbury's Finance estimates that as house prices have fallen, private landlords have seen the collective value of their properties fall by a staggering £118.4 billion between the first three months of 2008 and the same period for this year. This equates to an estimated £324 million a day. The worst affected area is London, where private landlords have seen the value of their properties fall by an estimated £37.36 billion.

MORE TH

Direct insurance firm, MORE TH>N, has launched its Personal Claims Handler (PCH) service to new and existing Home Insurance customers in a bid to provide an unrivalled claims experience.

Molly is the new face of M&S pet insurance

A beagle from South Wales is to become the new face of M&S Pet Insurance after winning a national competition.

Staycation Brits warned to check home insurance

As the British economy remains stagnant and the pound outlook gloomy, holidaymakers who once flocked to sunny Mediterranean shores for their annual two week break are increasingly choosing to holiday in the UK.

Parking mad - 80 per cent of parked cars bashed

800,000 UK households victims of holiday robbery

New research from Direct Line Home Insurance reveals that 800,000 households (16 per cent) have been the victim of burglary whilst they were away on holiday.

Aviva launches commercial property owners package

Aviva has successfully launched its new commercial property owners cover via its online trading platform, Fast Trade.

Santa Pod launches insurance service for car enthusiasts

Aviva offers free life cover to new parents

Britain's parents were today given a helping hand by Aviva - with a new offer providing £10,000 worth of free life cover for new parents in the UK.

Are you covered if your Walkman goes walkies

This week marks the 30th anniversary of the launch of the Sony Walkman, which changed the listening habits of music lovers everywhere, allowing them to carry their music with them.

Brits have no safety net in place

Thirty million Brits (62%) have not protected themselves for the long term should the worst happen and they lose their household's main income and only a quarter (25%) believe they would be completely protected in this situation, according to research from Scottish Widows.

Rear-end bumps prove pain in the neck for motorists

Admiral has calculated there are over 420,000 rear-end bumps in the UK each year, and they account for one in four of all road accidents.

New ABI initiative will improve Critical Illness insurance

The ABI has today launched a three-month consultation on changes to its Statement of Best Practice for Critical Illness Cover.

Confused.com launches ‘gap' insurance product

Car deprecation insurance

Unless you’ve visited a car sales garage recently, you’ve probably never heard of Gap Insurance (Guaranteed Asset Protection). Well your not alone, it’s a smart policy that the car industry has held very close to it’s chest as its also one of their strongest commercial ‘add-ons’ when selling a car.

Home insurance quote and buy site hit with consumers

The Halifax Home Insurance Quote and Buy website was recently rated number one in the UK home insurance market in a benchmarking study by independent company, Global Reviews.

Combined home and contents insurance not always best value

Research by AA Insurance suggests that more two-fifths of households would save money by buying separate home and buildings insurance, rather than a combined policy.

No wait for most benefits with engage Health Cash Plan

If you spend on dental checks and treatment, eye tests and spectacles, or complementary therapies like physiotherapy, acupuncture and chiropractic, you can get a helping hand with the payments.

Protect your garden glories

As the 2009 ‘barbecue summer' gets into full swing many Brits will be taking advantage of what their gardens have to offer. moneysupermarket.com urges those sprucing up their gardens and planning ‘al fresco' entertaining to ensure their gardens are well protected.

Sainsbury's offers 12 months car insurance for price of 10

Sainsbury's Finance is offering motorists 12 months' car insurance for the price of 10 months if they purchase a policy between the 30th June and the 31st August 2009.

Male drivers pay more for car insurance

Male drivers will fork out almost £17,000 more for their car insurance on average, compared to their female counter-parts, according to latest research from moneysupermarket.com.

Don't blame the consumer for being disloyal

Car insurance comparison site Gocompare.com has commented on Mintel findings that drivers are more cost conscious and less loyal when it comes to car insurance.

The risk of travelling abroad without insurance

Paying for medical care abroad has become even more expensive, warns Direct Line Travel Insurance, and so cutting back on insurance cover could turn out to be a false economy.

LV= extends offer on unemployment cover

LV= has again extended its offer to remove the initial 60 day unemployment claim exclusion for customers who replace their existing unemployment cover with LV='s innovative Mortgage & Lifestyle Protection cover. Usually LV= would not pay a claim for unemployment cover if the customer became unemployed within 60 days of their plan starting.

Airline insurance ticking the wrong box

Some airlines are adding up to £10 to the cost of a flight and flouting EU laws by automatically adding travel insurance during the booking process.

Travellers urged to shop around for insurance

Steve Williams, Head of Travel Insurance at Confused.com: "Over the coming days major travel operators will release 2010 summer deals. As a way of encouraging families to book early, free child places are expected to be up for grabs. As many families plan their 2010 fun in the sun, Confused.com reminds consumers that purchasing insurance with the tour operator is not obligatory. Shopping around for travel insurance is the best for budgets.

Best and worst delayed departure cover

There are few things more frustrating than being held up on the way to your holiday. The delayed departure cover offered by many travel insurance policies can never fully compensate you for spending time in the departure lounge when you could be on the beach, but making a claim on your travel insurance may at least cover the cost of food and drink while you're waiting to take off or set sail.

Heat wave could give homeowners that sinking feeling

After the two wettest summers since records began, the Met Office predicts that we are in for a scorcher this year, with soaring temperatures and less rainfall, so Halifax Home Insurance is reminding homeowners to take steps now to reduce the risk of subsidence.

Avoid driving abroad uninsured

With the start of the school summer holidays less than four weeks away and a boost for holidaymakers as the pound rises against the euro, nearly 3.4 million motorists (10 per cent) plan to drive their car to Europe this summer.

Life Insurance: Top 5 tips for consumers

Compares 112 motor insurance prices from 100 providers

Market leading price comparison site moneysupermarket.com now has 100 motor insurance companies available to compare live in its motor insurance channel, and returns a comparison of up to 112 different prices for its customers.

RIAS launches ‘One Click, One Call' for over 50s travellers

Over 50s insurance provider RIAS has enhanced its travel insurance offering by launching ‘One Click, One Call' - an all-encompassing online or telephone application process allowing customers to purchase single trip or annual travel insurance cover in minutes.

ibuyeco enhances green offering

Eco car insurance provider ibuyeco, has enhanced its offering to allow policyholders to support a broader range of environmental projects when purchasing their car insurance.

Time for a sound investment?

2009 is a time of economic uncertainty and with little faith in stocks and shares, investors are turning away from paper investments and choosing emotional assets to secure their wealth.

Homeowners advised to take cover during Wimbledon

As Wimbledon 2009 hits our TV screens this week, many UK tennis fans caught up in the frenzy are eager to get outside and display their racquet skills, expert or otherwise! Halifax Home Insurance typically sees a rise in home insurance claims for broken windows and other accidental glass breakages during Wimbledon, with claims increasing by around a third (34%) in June last year compared to last January's claims data.

Investment needed to protect homes from flood risk

Responding to today's report from the Environment Agency on protecting homes in England from future floods, Martin Hall, Director of Home Underwriting at Direct Line Home Insurance said: "We agree with the findings in today's reports from the Environment Agency, saying that flooding poses an increasing threat to homes and businesses due to climate change. Direct Line will continue to provide affordable flood cover for all our customers for the foreseeable future, and will work with the Environmental Agency to achieve this aim. With 1 in 6 homes in England currently at risk of flooding, action must be taken now. Longer term planning and ring fenced financing of flood protection and prevention schemes must be assured if we are to successfully protect increasing numbers of those most at risk from flooding in the future."

Defra predicts hotter summers and wetter winters

The prospect of hotter summers is something that most people will welcome, but they forget that it can increase the chances of subsidence on their homes. And if followed by wetter winters, this could lead to greater flooding problems for homeowners.

Warm outlook forecasts summer of subsidence for homeowners

As the Met Office Summer forecast for the year suggests a promising outlook, with warmer than average temperatures and rainfall near or below average, moneysupermarket.com urges homeowners to ensure they have adequate insurance against subsidence.

Men are smiles ahead on dental hygiene

Men spend more on looking after their teeth according to new research from Tesco Dental Insurance.

£23,000 a year - that's the value of a Dad

Legal & General's ‘Value of a Dad' survey has found that the value of the work that Dads do around the home is £23,296.

Funeral costs a financial worry for six million people

Keep personal belongings covered this summer

With summer fast approaching more and more of us are packing our suitcases and heading for the sunshine.

Don't rely on car insurance to protect valuables at Glastonbury

As 177,500 music revellers head for the Glastonbury festival on Friday 26th June, new research from uSwitch.com reveals that 62% of car insurance providers will offer as little as £100 cover for all valuables left in the car. With 128,000 (72%) people travelling to the festival by car, this research shows that almost £8 million worth of items will be stored in these vehicles as a safer alternative to the tent.

Germany and France most expensive for an accident

Brits planning an Autobahn or Autoroute adventure this summer should beware - Germany and France have been named the most expensive places in Europe for a motorway mishap, according to the latest claims data from the UK's biggest insurer.

Travel insurance enquiries ‘heat up’ as summer approaches

Confused.com has seen record levels of travel insurance enquiries, as holidaymakers rush to protect themselves, and their belongings, over the summer.

Zurich concerned about ABI home insurance survey

Zurich Insurance is very concerned about the issues raised by the ABI home insurance survey. According to the ABI/YouGov research, an alarming number of people (22%) say that in the last year they have cancelled or not renewed their home contents insurance to save money, with 17% saying that they no longer have buildings insurance.

Ensure your festival fun is covered this summer

Whether it's the Isle of Wight Festival this weekend, or Glastonbury at the end of the month, moneysupermarket.com urges all Brits to ensure their possessions are covered while away from the home this summer.

Men cancer aware but ill-prepared for the future

Nine in ten men are leaving themselves open to financial hardship if they faced a critical illness by not having appropriate insurance in place, according to new research revealed by Friends Provident. This is despite over 80,000 men dying of cancer each year, over 52,000 dying of coronary heart disease and over 21,000 dying from a stroke.

Advice on how to batten down the hatches

Confused.com experiences 141% uplift in quote traffic as Britain was battered by bad weather over the weekend.

Bright Grey improves income protection offering

Bright Grey, a protection specialist within the Royal London Group, has improved its income protection offering by improving cover limits and including the services of HCML, the UK's leading rehabilitation case management company.

Wimbledon: Using your home to ‘net' you some cash

With Wimbledon kicking off in a fortnight's time, many local residents will be looking at ways to rake in the cash by making the most of their prime location. esure home insurance offers advice to homeowners who are looking to rent out their driveway or garage to spectators, set up a BBQ on their front lawn to feed the masses, put up a lodger, rent out their entire home, or even turn their property into a B&B, on how to make sure they're adequately covered.

IFAs switch to friendly societies for income protection business

Members of the Association of Friendly Societies who offer income protection products have published new business figures for 2008.

Motorists forced to opt for lower level cover

Over a million UK motorists are opting for a reduced third party level of cover in a desperate bid to keep their vehicles on the road in the current economic climate, according to research from uSwitch.com.

Free pressure washer offer back at Tesco

As UK car sales continue to fall for the 13th consecutive month, Tesco has introduced an offer to help customers take better care of their existing vehicles. Tesco Home and Car Insurance are offering new customers a free Karcher pressure washer, worth £100, when they buy either insurance policy before 23 July 2009.

Scene of an accident information can cut claim time

Fleet drivers who gather information at the scene of an accident can speed up the insurance claims process, says Aviva, the new name for Norwich Union.

Keep contents in the open covered

While the fresh air might be doing us good, Cheshire Building Society is reminding people to make sure their belongings are insured to avoid disappointment in the event they are damaged or stolen.

Fraudsters hiding low-value ‘stolen’ cars in lock-ups

With fraud on the rise in the UK as the recession bites, esure car insurance is tackling fabricated low-value car theft claims head-on by stepping up its use of sophisticated cognitive interviewing techniques from 8th June 2009.

June 6th most common day for over 50s home burglaries

June 6th is the day of the year when the highest number of home burglaries are reported by Saga customers, according to analysis of theft claims data from the past decade by Saga Home Insurance.

Leaving your dog alone can result in ‘separation anxiety'

Despite being often referred to as ‘man's best friend', many of Britain's beloved pooches are spending many hours at a stretch without any human company. New research from Sainsbury's Finance, which offers good quality, competitively priced pet insurance, reveals that over three quarters of a million dog owners are leaving their dogs alone in the house during the working week for eight hours or more per day, an action that could be detrimental to their animal's mental well-being.

Direct Line offers new customers 50% off contents insurance

Direct Line is offering new customers 50% off the price of its contents insurance all summer long. There are also further discounts available with the purchase of multiple policies and for buying policies online, allowing huge savings to be made when getting fully insured this summer.

Credit crunch ruining the nation's teeth

Over 15% of the UK public have cancelled a dental appointment due to cost, a new study by Saga Health Cash Plan has revealed. It appears routine healthcare is becoming a victim of the current economic climate, with over a quarter (27%) of Brits cancelling fee-based appointments.

Quarter of Brits have been a victim of garden crime

The Nation's gardens are providing rich-pickings for thieves warns leading home insurance comparison website Gocompare.com.

Rising dental costs put Brits off visiting the dentist

Research from a survey by Tesco Dental Insurance has revealed Brits are finding it increasingly difficulty to find an NHS dentist. The results also show that rising dental costs are putting people off visiting the dentist.

Taking the stress out of moving home

With the traditional home buying and moving season upon us, people around the country will be facing the excitement but also the stress of moving house.

British motorists flout the law by fronting

Money conscious Brits are breaking the law by "fronting" on their car insurance to save cash, according to research from moneysupermarket.com (LON:MONY).

Pets are a woman’s best friend

In a twist on the age-old saying, it seems that pets are actually a woman's best friend. Research commissioned by Tesco Pet Insurance, reveals that a third of female pet owners consider their pets to be their best friend compared to 20% of men.

Boy racer extras increase premiums by as much as £6,225

Under 21's opting for ‘go-fast' extras such as spoilers, tinted windows and exhaust system changes can add up to £6,225 to the cost of insurance, according to research from uSwitch.com. In addition, opting for the ‘sporty' version of the most popular cars adds an average of £3,400 to what are already pricey policies.

Insurer warns of 50% increase in motorcycle accidents

The UK's biggest insurer has identified this May Bank Holiday weekend (May 23-25) as the most dangerous time of the year for motorcyclists. Recent claims data reveals that there is a staggering 50% increase in motorcycle accidents on the Spring Bank Holiday Monday, making it the single biggest day for claims.

Check your insurance before taking your car abroad

British motorists hopping in their car and heading overseas in search of the sun could be driving into a heap of trouble, according to new research from uSwitch.com. While most will remember their toothbrush, many will forget to contact their insurer to ensure that they are fully protected by their car insurance when driving abroad. Although most providers have extended the number of free days overseas cover they offer, there are still some loopholes that could trip up unsuspecting drivers and leave them saddled with an expensive unpaid claim.

Yorkshire Bank introduce cash back offer on home insurance

Yorkshire Bank has introduced a £75 cash back offer on home insurance. The bank will pay up to £75 to anyone with a lower renewal quote who then takes insurance with Yorkshire Bank.

Your hobby collections maybe worth more than you think

Despite the economic downturn, research from Halifax Home Insurance shows over three quarters (78%) of homeowners want to hold on to their valuable collections such as stamps, coins and artwork rather than reap the profits, but Halifax warns they are risking losing their valuables if they don't insure them properly.

Man U fans travelling to Rome warned it could be a costly match

With less than a week until the Champions League final, it is important Manchester United fans are fully prepared for their trip to Rome.

Sainsbury's offers 20% online discount on pet insurance

Sainsbury's Finance is offering a 20% online discount for pet owners wishing to insure their cats and dogs between now and 4th August 2009 - the biggest online discount it has ever offered on its pet insurance.

DIY accidents likely to rise over Bank Holiday

Over a third of Brits (38%) are spending more time at home doing DIY this bank holiday, says new research from AA Insurance. But one in ten are in for a shock, as their amateur DIY projects will go wrong, which could end up costing up over £100 to rectify.

Forgetful Brits fall short in last-minute travel rush

Brits thinking about last-minute trips to Europe during half-term or bank holiday breaks are forgetting insurance - and even their passports, says AA Travel Insurance.

Avoid motor madness - ensure breakdown blunders are covered

Motor-loving Brits hitting the roads on a quick and easy get-away this year may find breakdown cover is a must to ensure a smooth ride, says moneysupermarket.com.

Six weeks to go on Sainsbury's Home Insurance offer

Homeowners only have six weeks left to take advantage of one of the best home insurance offers currently available.

Thrill-seeking holidaymakers at risk says AXA

AXA, UK travel insurer, stresses the need for travel insurance as Brits replace the bucket and spade with Zorbing and Octopush.

Lifebroker Exports Online Insurance Sales Model to UK

One of Australia's largest life insurance brokers, Lifebroker, today announced its expansion into the United Kingdom.

Gardens a goldmine for green grabbers

With gardening spectaculars such as The Chelsea Flower Show about to bloom, it is anticipated such displays will entice green fingered enthusiasts into their gardens.

Honesty is the only policy – fronting is fraud

The recent reports of MP Andrew George's expenses claims (which allegedly include a home insurance policy in his daughter's name) is a warning to all homeowners who are tempted to engage in risky ‘fronting' behavior, where incorrect names are put on polices. Whilst it is unlikely Andrew George did this to benefit from cheaper premiums the consequences of ‘fronting' are highlighted below.

Don’t pay over the odds for holiday insurance

Buying insurance from a travel agent, rather than shopping around, could see holidaymakers paying nearly 500% more for their travel insurance than necessary, says Confused.com.

Say 'on your bike' to thieves

With a hotter than average summer predicted, and many people seeking ways to save their waistlines as well as their wallets, more people are likely to be getting on their bikes this summer.

Churchill will come to your rescue

From 1st May, every motorist taking out a new Churchill car insurance policy can rest assured that they won't be left stranded should they breakdown as free rescue cover will be included.

You can count on Churchill for 50% off home insurance

Households looking for a better deal on their home insurance this year should turn to Churchill. All new customers will receive a 50% discount off buildings and contents insurance when they are bought together.

3.8m pet cats and dogs have gone missing in the last five years

New research from Sainsbury's Finance indicates that 12% of people who own or have owned a cat during the past five years have suffered from them going missing, and the corresponding figure for dog owners is 4%. In total, this means 3.8 million GB residents have had to suffer this anguish. Alarmingly, 6% of these people were adamant that their animals were stolen and a further 14% said that it was quite likely that their animal had been a victim of theft.

Barclays cuts the price of home contents cover by half

With people frantically looking to save money on general house expenses, Barclays announces half price home contents cover for the first year. The offer is available to anyone taking out home insurance with Barclays for the first time until 31st August 2009.

Confusion reigns over continental car cover

Motoring-mad Brits planning to drive in Europe on holiday this year need to be aware of exactly what their UK motor insurance policy will cover them for, says moneysupermarket.com.

Sainsbury's Finance launches Over 50s life cover plan

Sainsbury's Finance has launched an Over 50s single life cover plan, with premiums starting from as little as £8 a month.

We’re all going on a caravanning summer holiday

With bookings up by more than a fifth at UK caravan parks and predictions that two million extra caravan holidays may be taken in 2009, esure gives advice to Brits opting for a caravanning holiday this year on how to protect their valuables and make sure they have the right insurance cover for their trip.

Unique new way of buying financial protection products online

The launch of innovative new website GetLifeRight.co.uk offers consumers the first chance ever to buy protection products with advice and receive instant cover in a quick and simple process that takes less than two minutes to complete. It has been brought to market by protection insurance specialists LifeSearch and technology experts, 1st - Exchange.

Newlyweds need to be newly covered

Newlyweds could add several thousand pounds to the value of the contents of their home once married, with guests at their wedding spending an average of £79 on each gift, according to research from Direct Line. As a result, a wedding with just 50 guests could mean £3,950 worth of gifts, while 150 guests could give a massive £11,850 in presents.