The Monetary Conduct Authority has expressed concern that mounting stress on family budgets could drive some prospects to chop again on important insurance coverage, leaving them with out safety.
The FCA has advised insurers in a ‘Expensive CEO’ letter that they should guarantee prospects are protected against pointless merchandise or add-ons and unfair penalties.
The watchdog stated it should rapidly intervene the place it sees any poor follow.
It additionally warned insurers to be careful for customers going through pressures on their bodily and psychological well being because of the cost-of-living disaster.
The regulator stated insurers wanted to establish prospects in monetary difficulties and assist them by reassessing present wants, contemplating the suitability of present merchandise and offering clear info on the extra value of premium finance.
In addition they must work with prospects to keep away from the cancellation of needed cowl, waiving charges for coverage changes and contemplate the elimination of cancellation charges for these in monetary problem.
Sheldon Mills, govt director, customers and competitors on the FCA, stated: “Clients who’re fighting their funds ought to contact their suppliers as quickly as attainable. We encourage prospects to proceed to buy round to search out the perfect deal.
“Corporations shouldn’t unfairly penalise them for any cost difficulties however as a substitute work with them to search out options.
“We’ve a thriving and environment friendly insurance coverage sector and we wish individuals getting the duvet they want at a value they will afford so each enterprise and prospects profit.”
The FCA beforehand warned lenders that it expects them to assist debtors who get into monetary problem throughout the cost-of-living disaster.
It has additionally advised banks to enhance the best way they deal with struggling small enterprise house owners.
