Car insurance help!

Louisedawkins

Hello, I recently moved house and contacted my car insurers to change the address. They promptly informed me that they were unable to change my details as I had less than 6 months remaining on my policy and therefore would be cancelling my insurance with immediate effect. When I asked why they had to cancel immediately they said that the details were no longer valid (as I have moved) and they had no option but to cancel immediatley. I asked if they could give me a chance to make a new policy - either with them or elsewhere - and they said no and cancelled my insurance. When I asked what I was supposed to do with a car I cannot drive as no insurance they said it was not their problem. I am now frantically trying to sort out new insurance! My question is - can they cancel immediatley with this reason? I was with DIAL DIRECT by the way. Many thanks

InsideInsurance

How long did you have left on the policy?

Did they reference any part of the policy book or terms of service where this clause of no mid term amendments (MTA) cannot be made in the second half of the policy?

Insurance is based on an annual contract and if you change the game mid term, eg by moving, then the insurer cannot be forced to continue providing cover nor are forced to provide cover on your brand new ferrari after you upgraded from your Fiat 500. That said I have never heard of anyone simply allowing no MTAs in the last 6 months and I would be surprised if the ombudsman would side with them.

Thankfully with the advent of the internet setting up new insurance will take less than 15 minutes, though agree its a pain to do so. Subsequently register a complaint with the broker that you dont feel this is treating customers fairly and escalate to the ombudsman if you are unhappy with their response.

rs65

Louisedawkins wrote: »

and therefore would be cancelling my insurance with immediate effect.

First, arrange new insurance.

Second, check your policy about their rights to cancel. If they have treated you incorrectly - complain.

Louisedawkins

Thanks! Have now arranged new insurance and am checking paperwork for old insurance asap. Will send a letter of complaint and post any outcomes!