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Originally Posted by docmartin  Again thank you, I had a chat with Direct Line, who explained the increase upon the fact that I had received a 50% discount last year when I transferred from 'Pet Plan'. I have to say a very pleasant young lady proceeded to work out premiums for both Crystal & Holly viz: For both £24.71 ($38 .44) per month. This is for £4k ($6k) in vets fees in 12 month, with a £160, ($240) excess per claim. Also there would only be the 'age related' increment next year - whatever that means?
Included are Death from accident, Loss from theft or straying, Boarding fees, Holiday cancellation and Third party liability, in case my 'Yorkie Terrorists' succeed in licking someone to death between them  . The underwriter here is UK Insurance, who I think also own Churchill and Green Flag etc and are the UK's biggest MGA?
This was still more expensive than the rest. I would choose John Lewis as an alternative, I think? For year 1 for both dogs they came in at £15.77 monthly ($24), but Vet fees are reduced to £3000 ($1500) each. But they guarantee lifetime cover. This means that if say Crystal used her £3,000 limit in one year on vets fees, I could claim again on the same diagnosis a further £3,000 and thereafter annually.
For only £1.80 a month extra 'Homebase' were offering £5,000 in vet fees per year.
I'll find out who underwrites both of the above before renewal later on next month and update? |
If you are happy with Direct Line but want John Lewis premium, ring Direct Line back and tell them that you've had an alternative quotation and they should consider matching it in order to retain your business.
If they are very savvy, they will try to poke holes in the John Lewis cover but John Lewis are very good at pet insurance. In the whole of the market, they continuously come up top at a time when most are dropping out of pet insurance. This means, John Lewis will probably increase prices due to monopoly effect but you don't have to worry about this for now.
I personally feel, as a previous insurance professional and a pet owner, that c. £15 for both dogs who are so young is a much more reasonable premium than what Direct Line are offering you.
Try to barter and see what you come up with!!
You make me miss my sales negotiation past but not enough to revisit it over my future doctorate! haha
ALSO, wanted to add that when you call Direct Line back, make sure they explicitly define what a 'age related' increment means and the projected amount of the increase. This way, if it exceeds your expectations at renewal, you have them cornered to honor what they say to you this year via a recorded call. Then, they will be obliged by law.