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A changing insurance market in uncertain times

Group Placement Manager at TL Dallas, Matt Smith, reflects on the current insurance market.

The insurance market is currently undergoing a period of stabilisation after several years of significant price rises and restricted insurer appetite. Many insurers have substantial growth aspirations, which has improved the competitive landscape. As a consequence, premium increases are easing.

An increase in the number of Managing General Agents (MGAs) – ‘virtual insurers’ with specialisms in specific areas supported by financial capacity from insurance companies – has led to competition for more favourable risks.

Whilst more capacity is returning to the market and insurers are becoming less risk averse, challenges remain around:

  • Flood exposures and climate change, with insurers continuing to invest heavily in flood mapping technology as well as adapting policies to reflect the increase of widespread climate-related events.
  • Historical construction materials – non-standard construction and non-approved composite panels remain outside most insurers’ appetites.
  • Claims inflation continues to be an issue, driven by changes to the way long-term compensation payments are calculated and problematic supply chain issues.
  • Increasing administration burden of regulation driving cost through all aspects of the insurance industry.
  • Uncertainty surrounding both the UK and global macro political and economic landscape, resulting in insurers exercising caution when setting medium and long-term strategies.
  • The growing threat of cyber-crime with both the SME and corporate sectors being targeted with the likes of cyber extortion, denial of access attacks and ransomware.

With the uncertainty surrounding the insurance market and wider UK economy, the best way to minimise instability is to embed a culture of proactive risk management within organisations. The likes of property and vehicle maintenance programmes, comprehensive health and safety procedures and staff training initiatives can be demonstrated to insurers, and in the current climate, insurers are more likely to respond with more favourable terms. In many cases, this can include loyalty incentives such as long-term agreements and low claims rebates, which can assist with budgeting certainty.

Another recent development in the general insurance market has been a notable decline in claims service standards and an increased scrutiny of policy wordings in the application of cover. Whilst we continue to recommend insurers with the best attitudes, stability and service levels, the challenges faced when liaising with insurers, loss adjusters and suppliers only heightens the need for an insurance broker with a full claims service to fight for policyholder’s interests.

Regardless of the uncertain outlook for the insurance market, TL Dallas continues to be proactive in seeking the most favourable terms for clients based on our extensive market knowledge and strong insurer relationships, meaning we remain best placed to help our clients for the short, medium and long-term.

"Caledonia Dallas has been an invaluable partner in managing our complex insurance needs. Their team consistently demonstrates deep industry knowledge and exceptional attention to detail. They work seamlessly with our business, ensuring comprehensive coverage tailored to our specific requirements. We have full confidence in their expertise and are reassured by the level of dedication they bring to safeguarding our operations."
Montrose Port Authority
“TL Dallas has provided trade credit insurance for the last 10 years, which has bought great peace of mind, whilst supporting the company’s growth. The TL Dallas team ensures that ACS can secure credit insurance cover for new and existing customers, as well as giving the best advice on slow payers and claims. They have recently helped with an appeal regarding the payment of a claim, helping with cash flow. The pride they take in their work is truly inspiring going above and beyond. Thank you for everything you have done and continue to do for ACS."
Leanne CleghornACS Technology Group Ltd
“We have dealt with TL Dallas for many years and have always found the staff to be very helpful and professional in all that they do. They are able to provide specialist knowledge and a bespoke service tailored to our specific needs, and the fact that they have an office on Shetland is a huge positive.”
Gary SpenceLHD Ltd - Lerwick
“Truly a job well done and really appreciate all the discussions on our behalf.”
“I have been most impressed by the customer service from TL Dallas when a problem was discovered in the bathroom of a property which I own, and which is rented out. They were very patient when personal issues caused a delay in a quote coming to them and again when there was a delay with the invoice. We also couldn't be more delighted with the swift payment of our claim by the claims handling team at Aviva.”
“Just a brief note to say how grateful I am for all your help sorting out the hotel policy this year. Over the years I have valued your cooperation in getting not only the most appropriate cover but at the best price.”
“I immediately recommended TL Dallas given the experience and the excellent service levels we have enjoyed at our company.”
“Three generations of Whitby Morrison have worked with TL Dallas for insurance needs. The support and service received just gets better year on year. The team are always on hand to offer guidance and advice whilst scouring the market for the perfect balance between price and product.”
“As a business we have worked with several members of the TL Dallas team, and yet it always feels like you’re dealing with the same person. The transition is always seamless, and their customer knowledge is second to none. As a client, you really do matter to them.”
"Whether you’re an established business, just starting out, publicly or privately owned, TL Dallas will take care of your every need, product, and price.”
Ed Whitby
“I just wanted to say once again how impressed I always am with your team – no matter who I speak to – and I think that’s very special. Your team are always excellent with their service and we always tell as many people as possible about you! I just wanted to pass this on, as you are clearly doing something very right and have been for a long time!”
“Thank you for your excellent service over the years.”
“Thank you so much for all your help and ongoing advice. It is so good to have someone advising us who is local and has so much understanding, not only of the business, but all the other influencing factors, as well and who totally understands what our business needs.”
Mary SharpShetland Control Systems Ltd
“TL Dallas has offered us consistent, transparent, and clear advice over the years. A trusting partnership was established from day one and we feel assured that we have value for money alongside the cover we need, which in turn gives us peace of mind.”
James RycroftManaging Director, Vida Healthcare.
We have been dealing with TL Dallas for over 30 years and have always found them to be efficient. They have created insurance policies that are tailored to our needs, which has helped us evolve the company. Like every business, you only find out how good an insurance company is when you need to make a claim. This has been effortless when this has occurred and I strongly recommend TL Dallas for your insurance needs.
Peter DurkinManaging Director, Mini Gears (Stockport) Ltd
We are so grateful that you helped to resolve a situation that was causing us great concern. After being badly let down by our previous insurance provider, and after seven months of emails, phone calls and lost documents, we decided to try elsewhere. After only one week of contacting TL Dallas, we had our policy sorted and at a much lower price, which in this current economic climate makes a huge difference to us. Your professionalism and knowledge of the Social Care Sector is second to none and we are so pleased that we took the decision to move to TL Dallas. We will definitely be recommending TL Dallas to our colleagues within the care sector, and we look forward to a long and enduring working relationship as we move our business forward.
Phoenix Day Care CICAdult day care provider
“Second to none service from this company. Always sourcing the best prices for us and helping us to procure the best insurances to suit the needs of our company. Extremely professional and helpful staff. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.”
Simon Kelman Plumbing & Heating Ltd
"Caledonia Dallas have delivered outstanding service to us since day one of trading in our new business. Local people who understand the totally unique way of operating business in the Highlands & Islands. I would highly recommend Paul and all his team to anyone!"
BDL Tyres Ltd
“We have dealt with Michael now for the past 10 years and during that time, he has taken the time to learn about all aspects of our business and provided his knowledge and advice along the way, thus enabling us to concentrate more on what we do best. As we have expanded and grown over that time into the successful company we are today, it’s great for us to have Michael there on the other end of a phone (day or night) always available to offer valuable advice.”
Loch Shiel Garage 2010 Ltd
“Michael has serviced our Insurance needs for over 20yrs now, it’s great for us to be able to have a local contact who is only a short distance from us. He has provided excellent advice and a first class service in respect of the insurance needs of our company and we would have no hesitation in recommending Caledonia Dallas to others.”
Lochleven Shellfish (Scotland) Ltd