OK thanks for the responses.

So as I understand it, I can go ahead and proceed to fill in a new policy with a new provider and say I have one year no claims within that new application?

Edited by johnmazda on 22/02/2024 at 20:01

Apparently the premium quoted will often increase as renewals draw closer.

If you wait until the existing policy is about to expire they will assume you are (a in panic buying mode, and (b) disorganised which may be reflected in your driving.

The optimum time to get quotes is 3-4 weeks before renewal.

As noted by others you can assume a years NCB - they will later ask for proof. If you have a claim in the interim you would need to tell them and the offer may change or be withdrawn

I recall someone (it may have been that money saving chap on ITV) saying that you get a first round of quotes (which should last about a month) just within the 1 month to go mark, keep all the references / hyperlinks (easier for those obtained via screen sc***er websites), then do a fresh search about a week or so before the renewal date.

Then use whichever ones gives the best quotes for the cover needed. Some insurers used to give a better quote if they are your existing one and you (like with car breakdown cover) start the process over the phone to move providers, but this appears to be less common for both now as the industry experiences higher costs and thus lower margins / profits.

With doing most things online, companies shouldn't need a 'paper' copy of NCD years nowadays, so you never know if a last minute call before deciding which provider to go with might stir them up to offer a big discount. I suspect some may not if you've tried it before and stayed with them.