Inform them that you wish to appeal their decision as per the Insurance Act (2015) under the basis of 'fair presentation'. Make sure you quote it like that.

It shows you know the laws that apply. Also inform them that if their decision remains the same, then you will wish to take the matter to the ombudsman.

Basically, what the law says is that you have a duty to inform them of a 'material circumstance' that applies. You state that as you were not convicted of any offence, you made full and 'fair presentation' of the facts.

Of course, this only applies if you were not specifically asked about 'speed or other awareness courses' in the questions before taking out the renewal. If you were specifically asked, then you must divulge the truth.

However, if you did the renewal online, and such a question was not clearly brought to your attention, then you cannot be reasonably expected to have seen it in the small print - the Insurance Act makes it clear that such information must be 'signposted'.

Finally, even if you are in breach of 'fair presentation' then the insurer doesn't have the right to do what they want to do in your case.

If the breach is 'deliberate or reckless', then they are entitled to void the policy and keep the all premiums paid.

If the breach is NOT 'deliberate or reckless', then they can

1. Void the policy, but return all premiums paid if they can show that they would not have entered into the policy at all.

2. If they would have entered into the policy, but on different terms, the policy will be treated as if it included those terms (this is not going to apply in your case)

3. If they would have entered into the policy but would have charged a higher premium, the insurer may reduce proportionately the amount to be paid on any claim to reflect that premium adjustment (so if the premium would be 3 times as big, then your cover is cut to one-third of what it was).

Basically, they're trying it on. Throw the law at them, and they'll realise they can't get away with it.

The Insurance Act 2015 is relevant to non-consumer contracts, as is the phrase "fair presentation".

Assuming the OP is a consumer (in the absence of information to the contrary) then the relevant legislation is contained in "Consumer Insurance Act 2012" which came into force on 6th April 2013.

Insurer has to ask specific questions to obtain relevant information about circumstances when you buy insurance.

More information here: www.abi.org.uk/globalassets/sitecore/files/documen...f

You may need to do more research as this may not be up to date! IANAL.