Howden insurance is a UK-regulated insurance broker providing personal and commercial cover through a national branch network. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, it arranges policies for individuals, SMEs and specialist sectors, offering tailored advice rather than standardised insurer-only products.
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What Is Howden Insurance and How Does It Work?
Howden insurance operates as an independent broker, meaning it compares products from multiple insurers to find suitable cover for clients. It assesses risk, negotiates terms and supports claims, acting as an intermediary between the customer and the underwriter.
Unlike direct insurers, a broker represents your interests. In the UK market, this structure is regulated under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 and overseen by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Customers benefit from access to multiple providers, tailored underwriting and specialist schemes.
Is Howden Insurance FCA Regulated and Financially Secure?
Howden insurance is authorised and regulated by the FCA, meaning it must comply with strict conduct rules including:
- Treating Customers Fairly obligations
- Clear disclosure of fees and commissions
- Formal complaints handling procedures
- Access to the Financial Ombudsman Service
Client money is typically held in segregated accounts in line with FCA Client Assets Sourcebook requirements. If a regulated firm fails, eligible customers may seek protection via the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, subject to policy type and limits.
Personal Cover Options with Howden Insurance
Howden insurance arranges a broad range of personal policies through UK insurers. Availability varies by branch and underwriting appetite, but commonly includes:
Motor Insurance
- Comprehensive, third party fire and theft, and third party only
- Cover compliant with the Road Traffic Act 1988
- Optional extras such as legal expenses and breakdown cover
Home Insurance
- Buildings and contents policies
- High-value property solutions
- Flood or non-standard construction cases
Travel and Specialist Personal Policies
- Single trip and annual multi-trip cover
- Medical screening support
- High-risk or complex travel arrangements
Because howden insurance works with multiple underwriters, pricing is not fixed. Premiums depend on postcode risk rating, claims history, voluntary excess and cover level. For example, comprehensive motor premiums in urban areas such as Greater Manchester or London may exceed £900 annually depending on risk profile.
Commercial Solutions from Howden Insurance for UK Businesses
Howden insurance is particularly active in the SME and corporate sector. Its commercial broking services typically include:
- Employers’ liability in line with the Employers’ Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969
- Public liability cover for third-party injury or property damage
- Professional indemnity for regulated professions
- Cyber liability and data breach protection
- Fleet and commercial vehicle policies
Premiums vary significantly depending on turnover, payroll size, claims history and industry classification. A small consultancy firm may pay from £300 to £600 annually for professional indemnity, while higher-risk trades such as construction will see materially higher premiums.
Many UK businesses prefer broker-led placement when risks are complex or require bespoke wording. In such cases, howden insurance negotiates directly with underwriters to secure tailored terms rather than standard online packages.
How Claims Are Handled Through Howden Insurance
Howden insurance does not underwrite policies itself; claims are paid by the insurer providing the cover. However, the broker supports clients throughout the claims process.
- Notify the broker or insurer immediately after an incident.
- Provide documentation such as photos, police references or invoices.
- Loss adjusters may assess damage for higher-value claims.
- The insurer confirms settlement based on policy terms.
A broker’s value often becomes clear at this stage. If disputes arise over liability or policy wording, it can liaise with the insurer on your behalf. Should a complaint remain unresolved, customers may escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service within six months of a final response.
Branch Network and Local Advisory Model
One differentiator of howden insurance is its extensive UK high street presence. Clients can access face-to-face advice in many towns and cities rather than relying solely on call centres.
This local model can be beneficial for:
- Complex commercial placements
- High net worth home insurance
- Community-based organisations and charities
- Regional risk nuances such as coastal flood exposure
Face-to-face advisory services may appeal to customers who prefer personalised underwriting discussions rather than purely digital comparison platforms.
Howden Insurance vs Direct Insurers and Comparison Sites
When evaluating howden insurance, it is important to understand the structural differences between brokers and direct insurers.
Broker Model Advantages
- Access to multiple insurers
- Negotiated bespoke terms
- Specialist schemes for niche sectors
Potential Considerations
- Broker fees may apply
- Not always the cheapest headline premium
- Pricing varies by branch and underwriting appetite
Direct insurers may offer lower introductory prices online. However, for complex risks or non-standard circumstances, broker placement can deliver broader cover wording and stronger claims advocacy.
Cost Factors Affecting Howden Insurance Policies
The price of policies arranged through howden insurance depends on multiple underwriting variables:
- Geographic risk weighting within the UK
- Claims history and no-claims bonus
- Excess levels selected
- Policy limits and endorsements
- Industry classification for business policies
Inflation, supply chain repair costs and Insurance Premium Tax also affect pricing. IPT in the UK currently stands at 12 percent for most general insurance products, directly influencing the final premium paid.
To optimise value:
- Review sums insured annually
- Consider voluntary excess adjustments
- Bundle compatible policies where appropriate
- Maintain accurate risk disclosures
Is Howden Insurance Suitable for You?
Howden insurance may suit individuals or businesses requiring tailored advice, specialist risk placement or local branch support. It is particularly relevant where risks are complex, high value or outside standard comparison site criteria.
Before proceeding, consider:
- Whether you prefer broker advice or direct purchase
- The importance of face-to-face service
- Fee transparency and commission disclosure
- Claims support expectations
For UK consumers seeking regulated, advisory-led cover backed by FCA oversight, howden insurance represents a structured broking option rather than a single-product insurer. Comparing policy wording, total cost and service model will determine whether it aligns with your specific risk profile and budget.