Published: 17 November 2025
FOR INTERMEDIARIES ONLY
Home truths: Avoiding misrepresentation in insurance
We know that helping customers with their home insurance can sometimes feel like navigating a maze. Misrepresentation, whether intentional or accidental, can lead to denied claims and policy cancellations, outcomes no one wants. But with the right approach, you can guide your customers in providing accurate information and understanding their coverage.
Helping customers report accurate property details
One of the most common areas where misrepresentation can happen is with property details. Some customers might think that tweaking the details about their property's value, condition, or security features could lower their premiums. While it might seem tempting, this can cause major issues during a claim investigation. Hosting engaging workshops can be a great way to discuss the importance of accurate property reporting. By using real-life examples, you can show the consequences of misrepresentation and make the topic more relatable.
- Clear communication: it's important to provide customers with straightforward guidelines on reporting property details, such as square footage, renovations, and security systems.
- Honesty and accuracy: emphasise the importance of honesty and accuracy to help customers understand why getting these details right matters.
- Online tools: offer handy online tools to make it easier for customers to assess and report their property details accurately. These tools can simplify the process and enhance efficiency.
Encouraging transparency: The importance of disclosing risk factors
Customers may not always understand the importance of disclosing risk factors like previous claims, flood zones, or nearby hazards. Insurers need complete information for accurate risk assessment, making transparency essential. Providing easy-to-use guides with examples can help clarify what needs to be disclosed. Awareness campaigns and sharing success stories can highlight the benefits of transparency. Offering friendly consultations with experts can ensure customers share all necessary information, boosting their confidence in their coverage.
Clarifying coverage limits: Avoiding misunderstandings
Misunderstanding coverage limits can lead to incorrect information and coverage gaps. To prevent this, simplify policy documents with clear language and provide summaries for quick understanding. Host open Q&A sessions for customers to ask questions and clarify confusion. Offer interactive explainers with visual aids to make learning engaging. Encourage customer feedback to continuously improve educational materials and address their concerns effectively.
Tying it all together
Misrepresentation in home insurance need not be daunting for your customers. By educating them on accurate reporting, transparency, and understanding coverage limits, you can help prevent negative consequences. Through clear communication, interactive tools, and ongoing support, you ensure customers are well-informed and adequately covered.
Here's to happy customers and smooth claims processing!
More information
We understand the importance of protecting our brokers and their customers against fraud. Discover our podcast, videos, articles and resources which contain advice on the different types of fraud, and how to spot and prevent scams. Read our fraud awareness page for brokers to help you and your customers stay safe.