Is there anything that I can do to prevent my premium from increasing? There are many actions with little or no cost that can be done. Tip 45 – Duty of Disclosure – ANY Material Fact Whilst in discussion with a motor insurance client recently a colleague was asked “If I have just one penalty point on my licence, do I need to tell my insurer?” We informed them that yes, it must be disclosed in the same way as any other material fact. The fact that an insurer MIGHT not impose any premium penalty/loading below for example 3 points does not mean that it need not be disclosed. If you have a sudden problem setting your intruder alarm when closing your shop for the night will your insurer understand that you wouldn’t have been able to contact them late at night and therefore deal with a burglary claim where the alarm failed to activate? No – they won’t. You must make every possible effort to report the problem to your insurer. As I have said before to all of our retail customers you can contact us 24/7, 365. If you are insured elsewhere – contact your provider today – ask what you should do if you find yourself in this situation. The message this week is to consider if there is ANYTHING that you might have to make your insurer aware of and if so act today – don’t wait until tomorrow! Always remember – call us to discuss any/every incident. We will advise and guide you.