Underinsurance is becoming an increasingly common problem for homeowners, making it more important than ever to check that your property is properly protected.

If you’ve noticed mortgage rates creeping up recently, you’re not alone - and you’re not imagining it. Many homeowners across Brighton & Hove are asking the same question: why are rates increasing, especially when the Bank of England hasn’t made huge changes? Let’s break it down.

Data from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) indicates that more borrowers are opting for ultra-long mortgages in an effort to manage rising housing costs. According to the analysis, in 2024 there were 116,276 mortgages taken out with repayment periods of 35 years or more. This is over three times the number sold in 2020, highlighting how borrowing conditions have changed significantly in recent years. As affordability challenges persist for buyers, longer mortgage terms help to reduce the cost of monthly repayments. While this can make finances easier to manage in the short term, it is more expensive in the long run. The longer a mortgage, the more interest is accrued, meaning borrowers could end up paying substantially more for their home over time. Plus, the average age of first-time buyers has risen to 34, so many people could have mortgages that extend into retirement, which can create challenges for long-term financial planning. The cost of longer mortgages Calculations by Compare the Market highlights the cost of ultra-long mortgages. Using the average UK house price of £293,000 and a 10% deposit, the figures show how interest costs can quickly add up over time. Based on a 36-year mortgage, the difference between a two-year fixed rate of 4.32% and a slightly lower rate of 4.03% equates to a difference of £20,197 in additional interest repayments. This shows that even small differences in interest rates, when combined with very long mortgage terms, can significantly increase the total cost of borrowing. For borrowers considering an ultra-long mortgage, it’s therefore important to weigh the short-term benefit of lower monthly payments against the long-term cost. Make sure to review options regularly as circumstances and interest rates change. What we know about 2025 Data for the first nine months of 2025 shows that London was the most popular area to take out ultra-long mortgages. During this period, 12,554 mortgages were taken out with terms over 35 years. This is slightly lower than the 14,455 recorded over the same period in 2024, but is higher than the 10,676 seen in 2023. After London, the South West saw the most ultra-long mortgages (12,457), followed by the East of England (11,181) and the South East (10,373). These are the regions where houses are most expensive, underlining the link between higher property prices and the growing use of extended mortgage terms. Talk to us If you’re hoping to make your property dreams come true this year, get in touch. We can talk through your mortgage options and help find a suitable option that will work for you, both now and in the future. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Sources: https://www.mortgagestrategy.co.uk/news/borrowers-taking-out-ultra-long-mortgages-more-than-triples-since-2020-compare-the-market/

Do you know what your home insurance covers? It’s time to review your policy and check that you’re adequately protected. A survey conducted by YouGov has found that many UK adults aren’t sure what their home insurance covers. This uncertainty could prove costly if the unexpected happens and they realise they are underinsured. In this article, we clear up some common misconceptions about home insurance. Your fridge/freezer contents The winter months can exacerbate any maintenance issues in your home, and the extreme weather can cause power cuts. If your fridge or freezer breaks down due to a blown fuse or local power outage, it can be tempting to throw everything away immediately. But most people are unaware that spoiled food is often covered under contents insurance. If your freezer is broken long enough for food to spoil, take a photograph of its contents before disposing of them. Your insurer will then estimate the value of the spoiled goods. Burglaries In the winter, homes may be more susceptible to break-ins as burglars take the opportunity to act under the cover of darkness. If you experience a break-in, buildings insurance typically covers you for any damage to the home, such as broken windows or damage to doors. Meanwhile, contents insurance generally covers you for any items that are stolen; however, if you have high value items (such as jewellery or bikes), you may need specialist cover. Lost keys Misplacing your house or car keys can be stressful and inconvenient, particularly if you need to call out an emergency locksmith. Many people don’t realise that some insurers will cover the cost of replacing lost keys. However, policies can vary, so it’s important to check first. Accidental damage Accidents can easily happen around the house, especially if you have children or pets! Accidental damage is an optional add-on - it can protect you against one-off incidents which cause damage to your home, such as a football smashing the window. It’s easy to forget if you’ve already purchased this cover, so now is a good time to review. The importance of advice According to the YouGov research, a third of those who purchased their home insurance through a price comparison site in the last year are unclear what their policy covers. This highlights the importance of seeking advice when insuring your home and personal belongings. You don’t have to navigate the small print alone - we will clearly explain the policy terms, so you know exactly when you are, and aren’t, insured. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. Sources: https://protectionreporter.co.uk/tis-the-season-to-flag-home-protection-gaps.html

The winters are getting colder and stormier, so it’s important to take appropriate steps to protect your home. Here are some top tips. Review your insurance The most important step you can take is to get adequate cover. According to the ABI, in 2024 UK insurers paid out a record £585m for weather-related damage to homes and possessions. This shows that an increasing number of homeowners are relying on their insurance policy to protect them in extreme weather. Watch out for storm hazards If a storm is coming, make sure to safely store any loose objects, such as garden furniture and trampolines. Fences and gates are not always insured against storm damage, so make sure they are secured too. Consider flood risks You can check online if your home is at risk of flooding. There are helplines you can contact during flood emergencies, such as Floodline. If heavy rainfall is on the way, check your gutter - if your drainpipes are clogged, this could cause a leak. Check your boiler Boiler breakdowns can occur during cold snaps and the cost of repair is not always included in standard home insurance policies. To avoid getting caught out, it’s important to get your boiler serviced annually, or you can purchase additional cover. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. Sources: https://www.abi.org.uk/news/news-articles/2025/2/more-action-needed-to-protect-properties-as-adverse-weather-takes-record-toll-on-insurance-claims-in-2024/

Last year saw significant housing reforms for renters and homebuyers – here’s a recap of what you need to know. Change to renters’ rights The Renters’ Rights Act received Royal Assent in October 2025 and will come into force in three phrases this year. The initial phase of the rollout in May will include the much-awaited end to Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions in England. Plus, all fixed term tenancies will automatically convert to periodic tenancies. Scotland rent controls Scotland has also seen reforms for renters. Local authorities will be able to designate Rent Control Areas, where there will be a cap on how much landlords can raise rent. Plus, councils will be required to act sooner to prevent homelessness. Stamp Duty changes In April 2025, Stamp Duty thresholds reverted to their higher level in England and Northern Ireland. First-time buyers now have to pay the tax on homes above £300,000 and other buyers will be charged on properties over £125,000. Reforms in Wales Legislation is underway to improve the safety of tall buildings and houses in multiple occupation. Also, the Homelessness and Social Housing Allocation (Wales) Bill plans to improve access to housing support. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Sources: https://www.propertyreporter.co.uk/what-2025-housing-reforms-mean-for-renters-and-homebuyers-across-the-uk.html

End of year statistics for 2025 offer some reasons to be optimistic about the housing market. According to Zoopla, house sales for 2025 hit 1.2 million, the highest level for three years. First-time buyers showed growing confidence as they accounted for 39% of transactions last year. Meanwhile, house prices lagged last year, with the average house valued at £270,300 at the end of 2025. This is up 1.1% on the previous year but is lower than the 10-year average of 3.8% growth. Zoopla expects prices to rise by 1.5% in 2026 while Rightmove’s outlook is more positive, at 2%. Richard Donnell as Zoopla commented, “We expect a stronger 2026 as buyers return to the market, with more homes for sale.” Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Sources: https://www.mortgagestrategy.co.uk/news/house-sales-hit-three-year-high-says-zoopla/

Do you know what your belongings are really worth? It can be easy to underestimate their value, which could leave you underinsured. Home contents insurance protects your possessions and furniture against theft, fire and other unfortunate events. When taking out cover, you are usually asked to estimate how much it would cost to replace all the contents in your home. But when was the last time you took stock and assessed this? If you’ve recently bought new gadgets or received an expensive Christmas gift, you may need a higher level of cover. Equally, if you have sold some items, you may be paying for more cover than you now need. A professional adviser can help ensure you have taken into account all your belongings. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply.

Recent tax changes have prompted some to reevaluate their reliance on pensions for wealth planning. Amidst this uncertainty, life insurance could provide some peace of mind for those looking to protect their family’s future. Salary sacrifice changes In the Autumn Budget 2025, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced changes to salary sacrifice for pensions from April 2029. Currently, an employee can agree with their employer to give up part of their salary and, in return, their employer will pay the same amount into their pension. At the moment, this employer pension contribution is exempt from National Insurance Contributions (NICs) for both the employer and the employee. Salary sacrifice has therefore often been seen as a reliable way to reduce tax liabilities while boosting retirement savings. However, from 6 April 2029, NICs will apply on contributions above £2,000 per year. Unused pension funds As part of the Autumn Budget 2024, it was announced that most unused pension funds will fall within the value of a person’s estate for Inheritance Tax (IHT) purposes. This measure was introduced because the government identified that many savers were using their pension pot to transfer wealth instead of funding their retirement. The changes will come into effect on 6 April 2027, so those who had incorporated their unused pension funds into their tax planning are likely to be reconsidering their options. Benefits of life insurance The above tax measures have highlighted the precarity of using pensions for intergenerational planning. Some families may therefore be turning to life insurance to offer some certainty. Life insurance provides financial support to your loved ones when you die. You can choose the level of cover you need based on a range of factors including your dependents, salary, mortgage and other bills. Writing your life insurance policy in trust ensures that the payout is not considered as part of your estate, so it is not subject to IHT. Claims can be paid before probate is granted, enabling your beneficiaries to access the money swiftly. It is therefore a crucial way of safeguarding your family’s future. Time to revisit your protection requirements? We can help you source a life insurance policy that is tailored to your specific needs and family circumstances. There are a range of trusts to choose from, and we can advise on the most appropriate option, ensuring your cover remains effective, tax-efficient and aligned with your wider financial plan. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Sources: https://www.ftadviser.com/content/a724d36a-6636-4b53-bcd2-5d354ef62fac

Do you know the difference between life insurance and income protection? Life insurance Life insurance pays out a lump sum to your loved ones if you die during the policy term. You could either be covered for a fixed length of time (such as 10 or 25 years), or for the whole of your life. It’s sensible to get cover if you have any dependents because life insurance could help them to stay living in your home if you pass away. Income protection Income protection provides a portion of your income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury. The insurer will make monthly payments to you until either the term ends, you die or return to work. There will usually be a waiting period before you can start receiving payments. Income protection is recommended if you would struggle to cover essential living expenses if you were unable to work - for example, if you are self-employed, have limited savings or are the sole earner in your household. Do I need both? Income protection provides you with support during your lifetime, while life insurance safeguards your family in the event of your death. Both policies can offer peace of mind that you and your loved ones will be protected in times of need. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. Sources: https://www.legalandgeneral.com/insurance/life-insurance/definitions/life-insurance-vs-income-protection/

If you’re self-employed, appropriate protection should be top of your list. There are many benefits to being your own boss, however it does comes with some financial risks. Have you considered what would happen if you were unable to work unexpectedly? Without the safety net of statutory sick pay, you could find yourself in a vulnerable financial position. You might lose your income but still have business costs to pay for, such as rent and equipment. It’s therefore essential to safeguard yourself and your business by getting the right cover. We can advise on the most suitable policies for you, which may include critical illness cover, income protection and other insurance. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply.

Research suggests that landlords may be forced to raise rents to account for tax hikes announced in the Autumn Budget. From April 2027, landlords will face a 2% tax increase on their rental income - the basic rate of property income tax will rise from 20% to 22%, while the higher rate will increase from 40% to 42%. Those paying the additional rate will pay 47%. In a survey of landlords, 86% said they expected the measures to push rents higher. But the first phase of the Renters’ Rights Act takes effect in May 2026 – from then, landlords will only be able to raise rents once a year. Ryan Etchells at Together commented, “this will inevitably result in higher rents from next year onwards, and if landlords can’t make their portfolios work for them they could be forced to sell-up altogether.” Sources: https://www.mortgagestrategy.co.uk/news/nine-in-10-fear-2-tax-hike-on-landlords-will-push-rents-higher-together/

According to recent research, a quarter of Brits are letting their home insurance renew automatically. Of the 25% people who allow their cover to auto-renew, 17% said that they do it without checking if better quotes are available. 8% said that, by the time they remember to shop around, it’s too late as their insurance has already renewed. Men (28%) are more likely than women (21%) to let their policy auto-renew. Meanwhile, 35% of those aged between 25 and 34 admitted to letting their home insurance roll over. Although it may seem like the easier route, letting your insurance auto-renew means you could be missing out on better deals. And If your needs have changed, you may require a higher or lower level of cover. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply Sources: https://press.gocompare.com/news/a-quarter-of-brits-admit-to-letting-their-home-insurance-renew-automatically

Hoping to move or remortgage this year? Here’s how to get mortgage-ready in 2026. Review your finances Now that the busy festive period is over, why not take this opportunity to organise your finances. Go through your bank statements and identify where you can reduce your spending – not only will this help you save for a deposit, but it will make your mortgage application stronger in the eyes of a lender. Set savings goals There are many hidden costs associated with moving, including conveyancing fees, removal vans, stamp duty and surveys. Considering these additional costs now will help you plan realistically and start saving accordingly. Check your credit score Most lenders use one of three main credit reference agencies to check your credit report – TransUnion, Equifax and Experian. You can check your score for free now, giving you time to make any necessary improvements before applying. Consult a mortgage broker Seeking professional advice early can make sure you’re well prepared for the mortgage process. It can help you set a realistic budget and gives you an opportunity to strengthen your application. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. You may have to pay and early repayment charge to your existing lender if you remortgage.

New research shows that a quarter of consumers are not confident in their family’s financial resilience. A survey by The Exeter has found that nearly a quarter (23%) of UK adults are unsure if their family would manage financially if they unexpectedly died. Just over a third (35%) think that their family could cope temporarily, while only 22% are certain that their loved ones would be fully protected if the worst happened. Age and gender differences The research highlighted a gap in confidence between the genders, with men significantly more confident (67%) about their family’s financial resilience than women (49%). There is a clear generational difference too - those aged 45-54 are the least assured, with a third of this age group unsure about their family’s financial security. This could reflect the increasing pressure felt by the ‘sandwich generation’ – middle-aged adults caring for both their children and their ageing parents. Boost your confidence How confident do you feel about your family’s financial resilience? With the right cover in place, you can feel certain that your loved ones would have the support they need if you were no longer there to support them. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply Sources: https://www.the-exeter.com/news/just-one-in-five-uk-adults-very-confident-their-family-would-be-financially-secure-if-the-unexpected-happened/

Recent research suggests that many UK adults would prefer to seek professional advice when buying home insurance instead of navigating the process alone. In a survey conducted by YouGov, nearly half (47%) of respondents said they would want to seek guidance when choosing a home insurance policy. Meanwhile, only 15% did not have any interest in accessing professional advice. This suggests that, on balance, there is a desire to be informed and supported when protecting what’s important. Why seek advice? According to the report, having peace of mind is the primary motivator behind seeking advice, with 35% of UK adults saying this was important to them. Meanwhile, 28% believed that speaking to an adviser would help them find a policy better tailored to their needs. This is understandable as exclusions, limits and optional extras can easily be overlooked without expert advice. The prevalence of ‘cover anxiety’ The survey indicated growing anxiety around purchasing insurance online, with nearly a quarter (24%) expressing doubts about sourcing a policy in this way. Interestingly, this anxiety was even higher (33%) among those who had used a price comparison site within the last year. This so-called ‘cover anxiety’ becomes more prevalent among parents – 42% of households with three or more children weren’t sure if their cover was right for them. This suggests that busy parents may be more likely to make a quick decision without properly consulting the policy details, potentially leaving gaps in their cover. Advice pays off It is encouraging to see that many UK adults seem to recognise the value of advice. Over half (56%) of respondents said they would be willing to pay more to ensure that their policy genuinely meets their needs. Expert opinion Louise Pengelly, proposition director at Paymentshield, commented on the findings: “Peace of mind is worth a lot and for many consumers, it’s valued more highly than the cost of the policy itself, as long as they can trust it will protect them when needed.” She added, “What’s especially encouraging is the number of people who say they want advice. This research shows there’s a large, receptive audience ready to engage with advisers, and it clearly challenges the idea that clients aren’t interested in talking about insurance.” Get in touch Inspired to seek advice? You don’t have to navigate the insurance process alone. We can help source cover that works for you and your budget. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. Sources: https://protectionreporter.co.uk/peace-of-mind-driving-demand-for-guidance-when-buying-home-insurance.html

With a new year upon us, now is the perfect time to take stock and review your protection policies. A lot can happen in a year and, as circumstances change, it’s essential to make sure your cover still meets your needs. Here are some examples of when you should review your insurance: Marriage or civil partnership We know that there are already lots of things to think about when planning a wedding, but don’t let your protection slip through the net. Getting married can significantly change your financial circumstances and responsibilities. You and your spouse should therefore ensure that your protection reflects this lifestyle change, so that you are both covered in difficult times. Divorce On the other hand, if you are going through a separation, it’s important to let your insurer know. Depending on your situation, you may decide to remove certain people as beneficiaries. If you had a joint life insurance policy with your ex-spouse, you may also wish to split the policy (if possible). Having children or other dependents Welcoming a child is an exciting time for a family, but it also brings greater financial responsibilities. You should therefore update your policy to ensure that any new offspring are accounted for. Similarly, if you have taken on caring responsibilities for another family member (e.g. an unwell parent), make sure they would still be financially supported if something happened to you. Moving home When buying a home with a mortgage, most lenders require you to take out home insurance. We strongly recommend that you also consider life insurance to ensure that your family could keep up with mortgage repayments if the worst happens. If you already have a policy in place, you will need to notify your insurer about your move. Change in income If your employment status has changed, you may need to adjust your policy. Perhaps you’ve recently got a new job, a promotion or been made redundant – these will all impact the level of cover you require. Also, if you’ve become self-employed, you will need income protection in case you are unable to work due to illness or injury. Health changes If you have been diagnosed with a health condition, check if your insurance needs adjusting – you may need an extra layer of cover, depending on your specific condition. If you don’t notify your insurer, you could risk invalidating your policy. Get in touch Even if you haven’t experienced any significant life events, an annual review is vital as there may be new products or better deals on the market. Get in touch with us to ensure your protection is right for you. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage Sources: https://www.mortgageadvicebureau.com/protection/is-your-protection-policy-still-fit-for-purpose/ https://the-exeter.com/customer/life-insurance/change-in-circumstances-when-should-you-review-your-cover/#:~:text=Increased%20financial%20responsibilities%20can%20require%20higher%20cover.&text=A%20new%20job%2C%20redundancy%2C%20or,can%20affect%20your%20protection%20needs.&text=Whilst%20the%20policy%20covers%20death,make%20sure%20it%27s%20still%20suitable.

Too many parents overlook protection New data has found that many parents are overlooking protection when purchasing homes. Only 19% of parents actively planned for protection cover when buying their home. Despite this, the average parent thought that, if they suddenly lost their income, they would only be able to keep up with mortgage repayments for four and a half months. Also, 43% of those with children said they would like some form of insurance to help them maintain their standard of living if they were unable to work. That’s where protection comes in – the right cover can provide peace of mind that you and your family would be financially supported during difficult times. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage Sources: https://www.moneymarketing.co.uk/news/vitality-urge-parents-to-think-beyond-mortgage-and-safeguard-stability/ https://www.ftadviser.com/content/8d7135ee-7e94-4c64-97cd-ff78a0be41e7

The start of a new year often prompts people to review their plans and for many, that might include a resolution to move home. As market conditions continue to evolve, prospective buyers and sellers might be wondering what will happen with property prices in 2026 and beyond. The latest five-year outlook from Savills provides a useful insight into what’s to come, including some forecasts for house prices between now and 2030. The report predicts that house price growth will be slow in the near future, with projected growth of 2.0% in 2026. This subdued performance is due to ongoing economic uncertainty and weak buyer demand. Looking further ahead, the landscape becomes more positive. Interest rates and mortgage costs are expected to ease, which should boost activity in the housing market. Savills anticipates annual house price growth of 4% in 2027 and 5% in 2028, before peaking at 5.5% in 2029. Over the five-year period, property values are expected to increase by 22.2%. Regional outlook The report indicates that regional differences in house price growth are forecast to persist in the coming years. It is expected that the North East and Yorkshire and the Humber will record the strongest performance between now and 2030, with prices expected to increase by 28.8% in both areas. On the other hand, London (13.6%) and the South East (17.0%) are likely to see much weaker growth as affordability challenges continue to limit house price growth. Improving conditions for FTBs Savills noted that, over the last year, first-time buyers (FTBs) have been a driving force in the housing market. In recent years, it has been notoriously difficult to get onto the property ladder, so it is promising to see that FTBs might be growing in confidence. In fact, new homeowners are the only buyer group to record activity above pre-pandemic levels. Interestingly, FTBs are the most active group in the capital, despite it being the most expensive place to buy in the UK. Challenges for upsizers Conditions are a little more challenging for ‘second steppers’ looking to move on from their first home. Weak growth in flat values means that this group of sellers is less likely to make a good profit on the sale of their home. To fund the purchase of a bigger property, many second-steppers are therefore relying on their initial deposit as their primary source of equity. As a result, the number of home movers is well below the levels seen in 2017-19. However, activity is expected to pick up as interest rates fall and house price growth strengthens. Contact us We can help you navigate the changing property market. With the right advice, you can turn your property dreams into a reality. Get in touch today. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage Sources: https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/mortgageshome/article-15256621/House-prices-rise-22-2-five-years-adding-80-000-typical-value-says-Savills.html https://www.savills.co.uk/research_articles/229130/382244-0

New research suggests that many UK adults significantly overestimate the cost of life insurance. According to a recent survey from L&G, respondents believe that life insurance typically costs £79.50 per month. In reality, the average policy was £27.95 in 2024, meaning that people are overestimating the cost of cover by an average of 184%. This substantial gap highlights the lack of public knowledge about the true price of insurance. Misconceptions about cost The report revealed that the biggest barrier to insurance was the cost, with 27% believing that it is too expensive. But the findings suggests that many people may be basing their decisions on inaccurate assumptions. Perhaps if more UK adults knew the real cost of life insurance, they would feel confident enough to take out protection. The attitudes of different age groups The research also highlighted differing opinions depending on age group and region. Brighton residents aged 45-54 were the most concerned about the price of life insurance. Younger adults shared similar worries; 18–24-year-olds also viewed life insurance as ‘too expensive’, despite this group being particularly engaged with their finances, reviewing them around 35 times a year on average. Motivation is also a barrier among younger generations, with 24% saying that they don’t have plans to take out life cover. Meanwhile, 13% of respondents said they ‘haven’t had time to look into it’. Don’t wait for big milestones Previous research from L&G found that many adults are waiting to reach key milestones before taking out products such as life insurance. However, with people getting married and buying houses later in life, many could be delaying having important conversations about financial security. Life insurance is not just applicable to those who have experienced a major life event. If you rent a property, have you considered how others in your household would keep up with payments if you were no longer around? Or if you have other dependents who rely on you financially, such as an unwell family member, it’s important to get cover. Don’t put it off Securing life insurance provides long-term peace of mind that your loved ones will be financially supported at a difficult time. It’s understandable that younger adults may not want to think about what will happen in the event of their death. However, getting protection now could result in cheaper premiums in the long run, as it is generally more expensive to take out a policy when you’re older. We can help you source a policy that fits your budget and meets your specific needs. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage Sources: https://protectionreporter.co.uk/uk-adults-overestimate-life-insurance-costs-by-184.html

In 2024, insurers paid out £585m in insurance claims for weather-related damage. Here’s how to prepare your home for winter so you can minimise your chances of making a claim. In the colder months, there are many reasons why you might need to make a claim on your home insurance policy. While you can’t completely stop damage from happening, there are precautionary measures you can take to reduce the risk. Common claims in winter Water pipes can freeze over, resulting in water leaks or burst pipes. Make sure to get your boiler serviced annually and cover exposed pipes so they stay insulated. It’s important your house doesn’t get too cold, especially if you’re going away - if you have a smart thermostat, the anti-frost setting can help with this. Winter storms are becoming increasingly common due to climate change. Remember to secure your garden furniture and fences so they don’t blow away. Clear your gutters, check for any loose roof tiles and trim any trees and branches. You may think that fire is less of a hazard when it’s cold. But heaters, candles and Christmas lights could all pose a risk if left unattended. Ensure that any electrical items are turned off overnight and test your smoke alarm regularly. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply Sources: https://www.abi.org.uk/news/news-articles/2025/2/more-action-needed-to-protect-properties-as-adverse-weather-takes-record-toll-on-insurance-claims-in-2024/ https://www.tescoinsurance.com/home-insurance/guides/prepare-your-home-for-winter

Research has highlighted a significant protection gap among manual workers in the UK. Almost a quarter (23%) of manual workers believe they are likely to experience an accident at work within the next three years, higher than the national average of 19%. But this demographic is one of the least insured groups – only 4% have income protection in place and 1% have accident-only income protection. Despite the occupational hazards, 36% of manual workers have not considered how they would cope financially if they had a non-fatal accident. A quarter (24%) wouldn’t know what to do in this situation – this is notably higher than the national average of 15%, therefore indicating a knowledge gap within this occupation. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply Sources: https://protectionreporter.co.uk/mind-the-gap-why-manual-workers-are-falling-through-the-cracks-in-income-protection.html

Data from the Bank of England shows that UK borrowers are currently favouring two-year fixed-rate deals. In Q2 of this year, half of new mortgages were two-year deals, with only 35% opting for five-year terms. Borrowers are probably hoping to remortgage to a cheaper deal if Bank Rate keeps falling over the next two years. This marks a change in attitude since 2022 - interest rates were beginning to rise, so buyers were hoping to keep mortgage costs low by choosing a five-year fixed deal. A longer mortgage deal is still worth considering, despite hopes that interest rates will ease in the coming years. Analysts do not anticipate mortgage rates to fall to the record lows seen in 2021; instead, they expect that mortgage rates will settle at a higher level, potentially around 3.5%. Also, potential cuts to Bank Rate are taken into consideration when pricing fixed rate mortgages, so some experts believe that current rates are the best that we will get for a while. Deciding on your next move? It’s essential to seek advice so you can make an informed decision about the mortgage deal that’s right for you. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. You may have to pay an early repayment charge to your existing lender if you remortgage Sources:  https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/other/half-of-mortgage-borrowers-fix-for-two-years-are-they-being-too-optimistic-about-rate-cuts/ar-AA1OWSr5 https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/mortgageshome/article-15128641/HALF-mortgage-borrowers-fix-two-years-optimistic-rate-cuts.html

A survey from LRG has revealed the three most influential factors when buying a property, excluding price and location. Updated kitchens and bathrooms were the important features, with 77% of respondents citing these as key influencers. Meanwhile, an attractive garden (55%) was more favourable than exterior presentation (23%), suggesting that kerb appeal is currently less of a priority among buyers. But presentation inside the home does seem to matter, with 49% of respondents citing cleanliness as a key influence. Bold interior colour schemes were the bottom of the priority list, with only 4% looking for this in a potential home. Kevin Shaw at LRG commented, “Buyers are clearly telling us that a spotless, well-maintained property can be highly persuasive.” Sources: https://www.propertyreporter.co.uk/homebuyers-prioritise-upgraded-kitchens-and-bathrooms-over-kerb-appeal-says-lrg.html

A survey has found that 30% of UK households would need to sell their family home if their partner or co-owner were to die unexpectedly. Affording mortgage repayments was the biggest financial worry in the event of an unexpected death, with 27% saying this would be their primary concern. Despite this, 60% of borrowers don’t have life insurance that covers their mortgage, leaving them without a safety net at a time when they may need it most. Moreover, 80% don’t have any savings in case of a financial emergency. Many UK households would therefore be in a precarious financial position if they experienced an unexpected bereavement. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply Sources: https://protectionreporter.co.uk/uk-households-unprepared-for-unexpected-bereavement-as-30-would-need-to-sell-the-family-home.html

Savills has published its latest five-year outlook for the UK housing market, including predictions for house price growth between now and 2030. The report predicts that house price growth will be subdued in the short term, with the average home expected to rise in value by just 1.0% in 2025 and 2.0% in 2026. This slow pace is due to ongoing uncertainty about the economy and weak demand from buyers. However, the landscape is expected to gradually improve as interest and mortgage rates ease. Savills predicts house price growth of 4% in 2027 and 5% in 2028, with a peak of 5.5% in 2029. Across the five-year period, property values are anticipated to rise by a total of 22.2%. Regional forecasts Regional variations in house price growth are expected to persist. The strongest growth is forecast in the North East, and Yorkshire and the Humber, where prices are predicted to rise by 28.8% by 2030. On the other hand, weaker growth is expected in London and the South of England, where houses are less affordable. In the capital, home values are only expected to increase by 13.6% over the next five years. Need support navigating the changing property market in the coming years? Contact us for advice. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage Sources: https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/mortgageshome/article-15256621/House-prices-rise-22-2-five-years-adding-80-000-typical-value-says-Savills.html

A report has revealed that only a quarter of working adults in the UK have an income protection (IP) policy. According to research from LV, only 27% of the working population have a financial safety net to protect their income if they are unable to work due to illness or injury. Despite this, half of those surveyed said they would feel more financially resilient if they had appropriate IP cover. The most financially vulnerable group Interestingly, the survey found that couples are the most likely to be financially vulnerable, with 45% relying on both partners’ incomes to cover monthly expenses. This is more prevalent among the younger generations, as 70% of working couples aged 18-24 depend on both salaries to keep up with monthly bills. Limited savings increase vulnerability The average working adult has three people who rely on them financially. But many survey respondents had a limited savings pot. A third have under £5k in savings, nearly a quarter have less than £1k and one in ten have no savings at all. This is particularly worrying considering that household debt reached an average of £20,640 in 2023-24. Don’t leave it to chance – we can help you source the right cover for your circumstances. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply Sources: https://protectionreporter.co.uk/lv-finds-only-27-of-working-adults-in-the-uk-have-ip-policies.html

Millions of UK homeowners are choosing to renovate their existing home instead of moving. In England and Wales, about 1.7 million homes (one in 15 properties) have undergone significant renovation work. These homes are marked with ‘official improvement indicators’, showing that they have had major structural changes, such as an extension or loft conversion. Legally, Council Tax cannot be increased on homes with improvement indicators until the property is sold or there is a general revaluation of all domestic properties. The growing preference for renovation over relocation is likely due to the rising costs associated with moving home, including Stamp Duty charges, mortgage rates and property prices. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage Sources: https://www.msn.com/en-za/news/other/data-millions-of-brits-renovate-homes-rather-than-move-to-avoid-costs/ar-AA1MzVrw

Research has revealed the best UK commuter towns, offering lower house prices whilst being in proximity to major cities. Remote working became the ‘new normal’ during the pandemic, but now three-quarters (76%) of employees are back working in the office at least three days a week. Many people can’t afford to live in London, where the average house price is £588,300. Peterborough was ranked the best commuter town near the capital; it’s a 50-minute train to King’s Cross and the typical home costs £238,800. In Edinburgh, the average property costs £287,110; however, Wishaw is located 45 minutes away by train and offers lower prices of £111,670. In Cardiff, homes are typically £280,760, but in New Tredegar, the top commuter town, properties are less than half the price at £108,600. Sources: https://www.zoopla.co.uk/discover/property-news/best-commuter-towns/