Use the address where the car is genuinely kept. If a move causes a sharp price change, check that the postcode, parking location and overnight address have all been entered correctly.
Why location affects quotations
Insurers can take account of local claims experience, theft risk, traffic density and other location-related information when pricing a vehicle. That does not mean every house in a postcode is treated identically, but address can materially change a quotation.
Moving house can change more than the postcode
Your overnight parking may change from a driveway to the road, your commuting distance may alter and the vehicle may be kept in a different place during the day. Check every part of the application rather than assuming the postcode alone explains the difference.
Make sure the address is exact
Autofill systems can sometimes select a neighbouring property, old postcode or slightly different formatted address. Confirm the house number, postcode and where the vehicle is normally kept overnight. If the car is regularly kept somewhere else, answer the insurer’s question accurately.
Do not use another address to obtain a cheaper price
Using a parent’s, relative’s or previous address because it generates a lower quote can make the application inaccurate. The insurer needs the genuine risk address. If you split your time between homes, ask how it wants the situation described.
If your existing insurer raises the price after a move
Ask for the revised premium and any administration charge in writing. If the new price is unaffordable, you can investigate other providers, but make sure any cancellation fees and the effect on the current year’s no-claims history are understood before changing mid-term.
When no providers will quote
If a particular address coincides with no quote results, recheck the details and consider whether another factor changed at the same time. A different car, occupation, mileage, claims history or policy cancellation can be responsible too. Location is only one part of the underwriting picture.
The comparison service is provided by Quotezone, a trading style of Seopa Ltd, FCA FRN 313860. Cover Problems does not recommend a particular policy. We may receive commission when you use this link.