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/

Many prospective buyers feel ready to move in 2026, but affordability concerns and uncertainty are still causing hesitation. Confidence versus action Research shows that 52% of prospective buyers believe they are ready to purchase a property this year. However, there remains a significant gap between confidence and actually making a move. High property prices and the challenge of saving for a deposit continue to be major barriers for many households. Rising living costs and uncertainty around mortgage affordability have also made it harder for some buyers to feel financially prepared. For first-time buyers in particular, balancing rental costs with saving for a deposit continues to be a significant challenge, despite improving confidence across parts of the housing market. Understanding the process The research also found that 31% of respondents felt they lacked understanding of the homebuying process itself. Many prospective buyers are also unclear about the different mortgage products available. We can help Seeking professional mortgage advice can help buyers better understand their options and feel more confident. We can help you explore suitable mortgage options. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Source:https://www.mortgageadvicebureau.com/press-releases/four-in-ten-aspiring-homeowners-still-holding-back-despite-rising-confidence/

Going through a divorce can be a very challenging time for you and your family; on top of the emotional stress of separation, there are many practical logistics for you to deal with. Amidst all this, it can be easy to forget about life insurance, but your policy won’t change automatically when you divorce, so it’s important to review it as soon as you can. If you have an individual policy… Even if you and your former partner had separate life insurance policies, you will still need to inform your insurer of your change in circumstances. Divorce can significantly affect your financial situation, so you will need to check if you have the right level of cover for your new lifestyle. You may also wish to review your beneficiaries. If your ex-spouse is still listed, they may remain entitled to a payout unless you update your policy. If you have a joint policy… A joint life insurance will remain in place until you make any changes to it. What you can do next will depend on your insurer and the terms of your policy. In some cases, it may be possible to split the joint policy into two individual policies. If you are not able to do this, there are other options… If your insurer allows it, you could arrange for either you or your ex-partner to take over the existing policy, while the other arranges new cover in their own name. Alternatively, you could cancel the joint policy altogether and both take out new individual cover. However, this may cost more as premiums are typically higher with age. You may also need to submit your medical history again. Plus, if your policy was written in trust, you will need permission from all the trustees before cancelling your cover. Your mortgage and life insurance If your joint life insurance helps protect your mortgage, you and your partner will need to decide what to do next. The person who stays living in your home may be able to take over the policy, but it’s important to ensure the level of cover still matches the outstanding mortgage and their financial circumstances. If the existing policy is no longer suitable, replacing it with a new one that reflects current needs may be necessary. We’re here for you If you’re unsure how your divorce affects your life insurance, speaking to a professional adviser can help you make informed decisions. Get in touch with our team today to review your policy and ensure your protection is right for you. 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://www.legalandgeneral.com/insurance/life-insurance/family/life-insurance-after-divorce/

A recent report has found that accidental damage is the leading cause of home insurance claims in the UK. According to Aviva, 32% of home insurance claims over the last four years were linked to accidental damage. Since 2022, the average value of these claims has risen by 63% to £1,869. This shows that, without the right cover, simple mistakes can be very expensive for homeowners. Examples of common accidents The research shows that incidents involving TVs accounted for 18% of accidental damage claims – this includes mistakenly knocking or hitting the TV screen. Spilled drinks are a common accident too, representing 8% of claims. Also, irons, hair curlers and hairdryers have scorched carpets and caused claims. Meanwhile, children account for 8% of claims, often due to spillages and broken gadgets. Are you covered? This data shows that accidents can easily happen, so it’s important to understand when you’re covered. Accidental damage is not automatically included in most standard home insurance policies, so you would need to purchase it as an optional extra. Incorporating this cost into your monthly premiums can save you money and stress if an accident does happen. 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. Sources: https://www.aviva.com/newsroom/news-releases/2026/04/from-slips-to-spills-everyday-accidents-make-up-a-third-of-home-insurance-claims/

Escape of water is an increasingly common source of property damage, accounting for 29% of UK home insurance claims between 2021 and 2024. In many cases, escape of water is preventable if you know what signs to look for. According to recent data, home insurers paid out £163.6m in escape of water claims between 2021-2024, with the average cost of a claim rising by 50% during that time. What is escape of water? Escape of water is classified as a leak coming from inside the home, rather than flooding due to rain or the sea. This could include burst or blocked pipes, leaking appliances (such as a dishwasher or washing machine) and faulty heating systems. Escape of water is an increasing issue due to more homes having integrated appliances, ensuite bathrooms and other hidden plumbing. It is also more of a risk in the winter months, when exposed pipes can freeze over. When am I covered? Most home insurers will cover you in the event of sudden, unexpected leaks, but it’s important to check your policy terms. Buildings insurance policies will generally cover damaged walls, ceilings and pipework, while contents insurance will typically cover furniture, carpets and belongings. Your claim may be rejected if the leak is due to a lack of maintenance or long-term seepage. How can I prevent escape of water? You can’t stop all leaks from happening, however there are steps you can take to minimise the risk. Make sure any exposed water pipes are insulated and your house is kept warm during winter. Keep an eye out for damp or condensation that could be an indication of escape of water. Don’t forget to look for drips in hidden areas, such as under the sink and behind the washing machines. Check the seals around baths, showers and toilets – if they’re old or worn, water could start seeping in. Also, old appliances are more likely to have plumbing issues, so consider upgrading before they cause a leak and it’s too late. What do I do if there’s a leak? It’s important to know where your stopcock is, as you may need to use it to stop the water supply if you find a leak. Once you have done this, you should contact a professional to ensure the appropriate repairs are carried out. At this point, consult your home insurance policy to check if you will be covered. Many insurers now require policyholders to pay an excess when making a claim – this is often between £400 and £800. Check your policy It’s important to know exactly when you would be covered so there are no nasty surprises when you try to make a claim. We can talk you through your policy and make sure you have the right level of cover. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. Sources: https://www.netmums.com/cost-of-living/the-10-minute-check-uk-households-are-urged-to-do-to-avoid-the-164m-home-insurance-claim-sending-premiums-soaring https://www.axa.co.uk/home-insurance/tips-and-guides/how-to-protect-your-home-from-escape-of-water/

Recent analysis shows that younger adults are benefitting from cheaper life insurance. In 2025, the average monthly life insurance premium for 18- to 24-year-olds was only £12 a month, while customers over the age of 55 were paying an average of £48. Over the last five years, the cost of insurance for the younger generation has fallen by 5%, however it has risen by 38% for over-55s. The research also indicates that more younger adults are taking the opportunity to combine life cover with critical illness, with 11% opting for this since 2020. Meanwhile, only 2% of over-55s have added critical illness cover to their protection policy. Whatever your age, we can help source life cover that is right for you. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. Source: https://www.insurancebusinessmag.com/uk/news/life-insurance/younger-buyers-lock-in-cheaper-uk-life-cover-as-protection-market-shifts--report-567434.aspx

For many people, buying a home is one of the biggest financial commitments that they will make. But house hunting is not just about getting the price right; you also need to be confident that the property and location is right for you and your lifestyle. Here are some factors to consider when making your move. What can you afford? We strongly recommend that you sit down with a professional adviser to ascertain what you can afford, based on your current financial situation. As well as your deposit and monthly mortgage repayments, there are many other extra costs involved with buying a home. It’s essential to budget for Stamp Duty payments, conveyancing costs and other additional fees. This will help you enter your property search knowing what you can realistically afford. Is this a long-term home? If you see a property you love, it’s tempting to get swept up in the excitement and make an offer immediately. However, it’s important to step back and ask yourself if this is a property that will work for you in the future. For example, a two-bedroom home may suit you now, but will you need more space in five years? Or will you wish you had more garden space when the summer comes? Location, location, location If you are moving to a new area, are you certain that you can see yourself living there? You should do your research and spend enough time in the area so you can feel confident that it’s the right decision for you. Look up the transport links and work out your commute times and costs. You should also research the local schools and amenities, so you know what you’re signing up for. Get a survey It’s important to understand what you’re committing to, which includes any pre-existing issues with the home. Paying for a professional survey now could influence whether you buy the home – you may find out that there are significant structural issues that are going to be too costly to inherit. Take your time Buying a home is a big decision, so don’t rush into anything. You can view the property again and take along someone you trust, so you have another perspective. Compare the home with other properties on the market and make an offer that is appropriate for you and your finances. If you’re buying a flat, make sure you understand if it’s freehold or leasehold and ascertain any building management costs. Talk to us We can help turn your property dreams into a reality. We will guide you through the process and talk you through your mortgage options, so you can view homes with confidence. Contact us for advice today. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Source: https://www.yopa.co.uk/blog/finding-the-right-home-five-things-every-buyer-should-think-about/

If your job is deemed dangerous by an insurer, this may affect your protection policy. Examples of hazardous occupations Jobs are considered dangerous if there is an increased likelihood of death when compared with the average profession. This includes the Armed Forces and working outside at heights over 15 metres. Firefighters and police officers are also often in this category as evidence shows that there are associated health risks and increased fatalities. How does this affect your life cover? If you have a hazardous occupation, you must disclose this when applying for life insurance, otherwise you risk invalidating your policy. You may need to provide further details about your duties so the insurer can assess the level of risk. Your premiums might be more expensive if the insurer decides there is a higher chance that they will need to make a payout. Get in touch If you are unable to get standard life insurance, you may be able to get specialist cover with the help of a professional adviser. It’s important to consider if you also need critical illness cover or income protection due to the nature of your job. We will explain your options so you can make an informed decision. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. Source: https://www.legalandgeneral.com/insurance/life-insurance/lifestyle/dangerous-jobs/

Research suggests that many UK households could be missing out on better home insurance deals as they have allowed their policy to auto-renew. A quarter of Brits let their home insurance renew automatically and 17% of this group haven’t checked if better deals are available. A further 8% admit that they left it too late to shop around, by which point their policy had already rolled over. The trend is particularly noticeable among men, who are more likely to let their policies auto-renew. While it can feel convenient, auto-renewal is not always the most cost-effective option. Insurance premiums and personal circumstances can change year to year, so you could end up paying more than necessary. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. Source: https://press.gocompare.com/news/a-quarter-of-brits-admit-to-letting-their-home-insurance-renew-automatically

House prices picked up in March, with annual growth rising to 2.2% according to Nationwide. This is an improvement on February, when prices rose annually by 1.0%. The average house now costs £277,186. In March, most UK regions saw modest increases in house prices, however the Outer South East and East Anglia both saw price declines. Meanwhile, Northern Ireland outperformed the rest of the UK, with annual growth of 9.5%. In England, the North West saw the strongest increase, with prices rising by 3.3% year-on-year. Interestingly, detached properties recorded the biggest annual growth, with a price increase of 2.4%. On the other hand, the value of flats has only increased by 15% since the start of 2020 – half the growth seen in detached properties. Source: https://www.mortgagestrategy.co.uk/news/annual-house-price-growth-up-2-2-in-march-nationwide/ https://www.nationwide.co.uk/media/hpi/reports/uk-house-price-growth-picks-up-in-march