Query. Marks & Spencers car insurance renewal.

Mk14:37

vusys1 wrote: »

it also gives the company a chance to save the business if you do not wish to renew by matching the other quote or offering other incentives to stay with them.

I always search 1st then call to say Ive found cheaper, they match,wait until next year and do the same.

I tried doing that this year, after my premium went up from £395 to £550, despite an additional year's NCB and no accidents etc. at all, ever.

However, the woman in the Bell call centre was able to see the results of my most recent search on Go Compare and knew full well that I was BS-ing. She did manage to cut the premium by about £50 though.

However, I've just refused to give my current buildings and contents insurers (Kwik Fit) the opportunity to better their renewal offer (although they DON'T auto renew). last year was £200, this year £250. I got the same cover with lower excess from Swiftcover for £210, and hopefully Quidco will track at £32. Kwik Fit's opportunity was in giving me a competitive quote to retain my custom from the start, not banking on me being too busy/stupid/lazy to shop around.

Azimuth99

@MK14:37 thanks.

Kwik Fit's opportunity was in giving me a competitive quote to retain my custom from the start, not banking on me being too busy/stupid/lazy to shop around.

Very valid point actually. I think being competitive up front (and not automatically taking the money) works best for the consumer, and maybe for them too (early sale). Sounds like Kwik Fit worked well for you.

In my case, the M&S quote was £100 higher than the previous year with M&S, and Hastings (who I went with), for an identical policy. Taking the money automatically thus works against their (insurers) interests by annoying customers (me). £100 is a lot of cash to me, as I'm unemployed - and having two premiums exit my account leaves me financial vulnerable for no real wrongdoing (on my part).
Not a good system at all.

Anyway, I've sent off the required documents for refund (recorded delivery). Hopefully I'll get the money back before my next gas bill payment is due (bites nails)...

Az99