4 min read
Whether it's to save money, get better coverage, or find a provider with better customer service, changing your policy can make a real difference. But where do you start?
Why you might want to change pet insurance
Before we jump into how to switch, let’s talk about why you might want to.
Renewal price-hikes: Your renewal premium comes as a shock and you may find a better deal elsewhere.
Special offers: New customers sometimes get a discount on their premium.
Changing needs: Your pet’s health or age may require a different level of cover.
Poor service: Long claim times or poor communication from your current insurer? That could be a sign to look elsewhere.
Limited coverage: Maybe another provider has fewer exclusions.
Even if you’re happy with your current provider, it can be a smart move to take a look at what’s out there. Comparing more providers and policies ahead of your annual renewal could save you serious money, or shift you to more suitable cover.
What to check before you switch
Changing pet insurance isn’t always as straightforward as shopping around for a cheaper car insurance deal, especially if your pet has pre-existing conditions. Here’s what to look out for.
Policy type: Make sure you understand the four types of pet insurance policy and choose the one most suitable for your pet and your budget.
Pre-existing conditions: Most insurers won’t cover conditions your pet has already been treated for (although some do – at a cost). So think twice before switching if your pet has a medical history as you could lose coverage for it.
Waiting periods. New policies often have a waiting period (e.g., 14 days for illness cover) before they kick in. That’s why it’s a good idea not to cancel your current policy until your new one is active and confirmed.
Multi-pet policies: If you have more than one pet and they are insured under separate policies, you may get a discount for switching them all into a multi-pet policy.
Read reviews: Trustpilot, Feefo and forums like MoneySavingExpert can give you real-world feedback on claim experiences and customer service.
The fine print: Compare things like vet fee limits, excess amounts, and inclusions and exclusions of your current policy and the one you are considering.
Picking up on that last point, this could be a good time to look at whether your needs have changed since you took out your existing policy. For example, your current policy may include behavioural treatment. But if your pet is a few years old and clearly has never shown any behavioural issues, you may decide to save a few pounds by switching to a policy without that cover.
Step-by-step guide to switching pet insurance
The process may differ between insurers, but here’s a starter guide to how switching typically works:
Step 1: Review your current policy
Make sure you are clear on what is and isn’t covered, your claims history and your premium. Check the renewal date also, but you may wish to cancel and switch before then – just watch out for possible cancellation fees.
Step 2: Get your pet’s medical history
Unless your pet has never had any illnesses, accidents or treatments, ask your vet for a copy of your pet’s full record. New providers will use this to assess pre-existing conditions.
Step 3: Get quotes and compare cover
Compare providers and policies to hunt out the best deal and most suitable coverage.
Step 4: Apply for the new policy
Fill out the application honestly, including full medical history. Some insurers will contact your vet directly to check.
Step 5: Confirm the new policy is active
Wait for written confirmation (email or post) that your new policy is live, including the start date and cover details.
Step 6: Cancel your old policy
Once your new cover is active, contact your old insurer and cancel in writing. If you're within a cooling-off period, you may be entitled to a full or partial refund.
Think carefully before switching – but it could be a good move
Changing your pet insurance doesn’t have to be a hassle. With a little planning and research, you can save money and ensure your beloved pet gets the right level of cover.
Just be sure to look into all the relevant terms and conditions, understand the cover you’re getting, and time the switch so that you don’t leave a gap in your pet insurance coverage.