Many homeowners are still unsure exactly what income protection insurance covers and could therefore potentially miss out on the valuable financial support this protection gives during difficult times. Confusion around cover Research shows that more than a quarter of homeowners wrongly believe income protection policies do not cover mental health conditions. There is also further confusion around eligibility, with some people incorrectly assuming self-employed workers cannot take out cover or that multiple claims are possible. These misconceptions could prevent households from putting appropriate financial protection in place. More support than people realise Income protection insurance is designed to provide regular payments if illness or injury prevents you from working. This support can help households continue covering mortgage payments, bills and other essential living costs. Policies can often cover a wide range of conditions, including both physical and mental health issues, although terms and exclusions will vary between providers. We can help you understand the options available. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Source: https://healthcareandprotection.com/vast-majority-of-brits-confused-about-what-ip-covers-lifesearch/

Thousands of homeowners may not realise that outdated or unsuitable door locks could affect the validity of their home insurance cover. Security standards matter Research suggests many UK households may not realise their existing door locks and security arrangements no longer meet the requirements set out in their insurance policies. One issue that can lead to claims being rejected is failing to meet minimum door security standards specified by insurers. Most providers specify particular standards for locks, especially on external doors. If these requirements are not met, insurers may reduce payouts or reject claims altogether following a burglary. In many cases, homeowners may be unaware their locks no longer meet current standards, particularly if they have older doors, damaged locks or have not reviewed their home security arrangements for several years. Check your cover carefully Understanding the small print is important, as security conditions and exclusions can differ between insurers and policies. We can help you review your home insurance arrangements and ensure you understand the security requirements linked to your cover. Get in touch now. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. Source: https://www.businessupnorth.co.uk/home-contents-insurance-fine-print-faulty-door-locks-clauses-leave-northern-homes-uncovered/

Recent research suggests that growing concerns around safety and global instability are encouraging more people to consider protection insurance as a financial safety net. What is the changing sense of security? Research suggests many people feel more vulnerable and uncertain than they did a decade ago. Ongoing geopolitical tensions and concerns around global terrorism are continuing to shape public attitudes towards personal and financial security. The research also found women are more likely to feel uneasy about their personal safety today, with 52% saying they feel more uncertain than they did 10 years ago, compared with 38% of men. Everyday activities are also increasingly contributing to feelings of unease. Research found that 54% of fearful adults no longer feel safe in crowded places, while concerns around travelling abroad and attending large, organised events have also risen sharply in recent months. Travelling alone remains a particularly significant concern for women, with 61% saying they feel less safe doing so, compared with 32% of men. Younger adults are also becoming more aware of the importance of financial protection, with many recognising the pressure that illness, injury or loss of income could place on their households. Why does protection matter? Protection insurance can provide financial support if illness, injury or death affects your ability to earn an income. Depending on the policy, this support can come as a lump sum or regular monthly payments. For many homeowners and families, protection offers reassurance that mortgage payments, bills and everyday living costs could still be managed during difficult periods. In uncertain times, this financial safety net can provide valuable peace of mind. Common forms of protection include life insurance, critical illness cover and income protection insurance. Some policies are designed to help cover mortgage repayments and essential household costs, while others provide support following serious illness or long-term absence from work. As concerns around financial resilience continue to rise, research also suggests more households are taking practical steps to improve their financial security. Four in 10 fearful adults said they had become more interested in protection insurance products during March 2026. The value of professional advice Many people assume protection insurance is too expensive or complicated, but policies can be tailored to suit different budgets and needs. We can help you understand your options and ensure you have appropriate cover in place. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Source: https://nationalfriendly.co.uk/adviser/bruised-britain/

Home insurance premiums have continued to fall, with average UK premiums dropping by 9% year-on-year in January 2026, according to recent analysis. The improvement follows a significant reduction in severe weather warnings across the UK. Red storm warnings reportedly fell from 18 in 2022 to just four in 2024, while amber warnings also declined sharply over the same period. However, insurers are cautioning households about the risk of wetter-than-average weather and the potential for property damage later in the year. This means reviewing cover levels and policy terms remains important, even as premiums begin to ease. We can help review your options and ensure you have suitable cover in place. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. Sources: https://theintermediary.co.uk/2026/04/home-insurance-premiums-ease-as-storm-warnings-fall-compare-the-market/ https://www.comparethemarket.com/inside-ctm/media-centre/home-premiums-continue-to-fall-as-households-urged-to-brace-for-wetter-than-average-autumn/

Calls for Stamp Duty reform are continuing to grow as first-time buyers face rising purchase costs. Research suggests first-time buyers have paid an extra £307m in Stamp Duty since the tax-free threshold changed in April 2025. On average, buyers have reportedly paid £4,618 more to complete a purchase over the past year. For many households already struggling with deposits and affordability pressures, Stamp Duty remains another significant barrier to getting onto the property ladder. Industry figures continue calling for reform to help improve affordability. We can help you understand the costs involved with buying a home and explore mortgage options suited to your circumstances. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Source: https://www.rightmove.co.uk/news/articles/property-news/rightmove-calls-for-stamp-duty-reform/