Notifying Insurance Mid-Policy??

markthompson32

Hi, I am about to change my car on the policy and as I went through the process I realised my named driver had a claim since I started this policy.
The process to change the car didnt prompt me to check/update any other information so I called up to see what I needed to update.
I was very surprised to be told by AXA rep that any claim or motoring conviction by me or a named driver during the policy should be notified asap? I always thought you were obliged only to update at renewal? In fact AXAs policy wordings isnt clear on this to me as I read it again and again..

Is this really the case? Are all policies like this?

Do I need to update this info when changing car during policy? And also must it be done asap whenever anything happens during policy?

Thanks

kingstreet

You do what YOUR policy tells you to do.

Some insurers stipulate claims or convictions be notified immediately, others at renewal.

All insurers do not do things the same way, so fixing something in your head as "the way it's always done" is going to create problems, for you.

There is no substitute for reading your policy documentation. Plenty of people will tell you what their policy, or their insurer says. That's not relevant. Only your policy is the one that matters.

markthompson32

Thanks for the reply, I guess my problem is that the policy wording is ambiguous.. but take your point I will err on the side of caution and just tell em everything..

kingstreet

I didn't answer the ambiguity issue.

What does it actually say?

Let's compare it with Esure/Sheila's Wheels, just as an example;-

8. Your duty of disclosure

You must tell us immediately if any of the following happens:

• you change your car

• you make modifications or changes to your car which improves its value, performance, appearance or attractiveness to thieves. This includes, but is not restricted to, changes to the engine, engine
management or exhaust system, changes to the wheels or suspension system, changes to the bodywork, such as spoilers or body kits or changes to the windows, such as tinting

• you want to use your car for a purpose not included in your Schedule

• you become aware of any medical or physical condition of any driver covered by your policy which may affect their ability to drive

• you or any other driver covered by your policy are convicted of a motoring offence other than fixed penalty parking offences or is banned from driving

• you or any other driver covered by your policy is involved in an accident whilst driving another vehicle or suffers a loss, such as a theft, of any other vehicle or makes a claim on any other motor insurance policy

• you change the address at which you normally keep your car

• you or any other driver covered by your policy are convicted of any offence relating to fraud, arson or dishonesty

• you or any other driver covered by your policy change occupation

• you change your annual mileage

• you or any other driver covered by your policy cease to be a permanent UK resident.

We may then re-assess your cover and premium. If you do not tell us about any relevant changes, we may:

• reject or reduce your claim; or

• declare your policy null and void.