Crazy price difference when buying car insurance as a new customer

Lime2014

Hi all

I've recently received my premium from Nationwide and it's just over £700.

I thought I'd register as a new customer on their website and I couldn't believe it was about £555.

I rang them up and said if it was ok to do this; the rep at the other end of the line wasn't exactly sure but said yes anyway. My current policy isn't on auto-renewal so she said to let it lapse and then go online to purchase it again.

I gave her my policy details and am now wondering if they're going to put some sort of block on my registering as a new customer.

Also, if nothing happens would I be required to send in a copy of my no-claims discount ? - if yes, is this received by me automatically once the policy ends ? or will I have to ask them to send it ?

Once received by them, aren't they going to think 'hang on, this is our NCD' and probably won't allow it to go ahead ?

Sorry for the questions but I just want to make sure everything's all legit and above board.

Thanks in advance.

InsideInsurance

As per all the TV adverts, almost all insurers give large "new customer discounts" and so if you aint a new customer you're paying too much (and funding others discounts)

As long as the website T&Cs dont mention anything about returning customers then they have to honour the price if the site allows you to buy.

Lime2014 wrote: »

Also, if nothing happens would I be required to send in a copy of my no-claims discount ? - if yes, is this received by me automatically once the policy ends ? or will I have to ask them to send it ?

Depending on their standard practice they may ask for your proof of NCD. You could either (a) phone them and give them your prior policynumber with them or (b) just post your renewal notice back to them as proof. They wont automatically spot your a returning customer and waive the need for proof of NCD.

Of cause not all insurers ask for proof of NCD at purchase point.


Its often best to see if they will price match themselves to avoid the lapse/ rebuy. Most will but theres been a few posts on here about Nationwide in the last week that suggests they dont.