Can I claim money back from my car insurer regarding unlawful charges?

Question

My car insurance is up for renewal, and I have just read that to renew it, or even cancel it they charge an admin. fee of £25.

I am aware that you can claim back similarly excessive 'admin' fees from banks (i.e. overdraft fines etc.)- so does anyone know if this has ever been successfully done with car insurers?

Also, is it normal for car insurers to charge a £25 fee if I want to renew, cancel or even make simple adjustments???

I am with Adrian Flux.

Answer 1

All brokers will charge a fee for admin., but I can't see how they can charge a cancellation fee at renewal.  You aren't effectively cancelling, just not renewing.

Just tell them that you are not renewing, if they take a payment from your credit card report the fraud to the card company as they will have taken it without authority. I think that you may be misunderstanding this part of their terms & Conditions but stand to be corrected.

Make sure that you have new insurance and that you have proof of any no claims bonus that you have earned before you dump them though.

Answer 2

Yes it is normal.

However not all brokers charge the fee.

When you took out your insurance policy it was stated in the conditions, that you agreed to, that the fee would be charged. If you didn't agree with the fee you should have declined the insurance.

I think you will find that Adrian Flux is a broker and not an insurance company.

You paid a brokers fee.

Answer 3

Who is running your car insurance company Al Capone? If you decide to cancel or change companies and your present company sends you a bill don't pay it but check the fine print on your policy first. If there is nothing in it about additional charges go there and laugh in their face after reporting them to your local consumer agency

Answer 4

Financial Services Authority or consumer direct helpline. Or cancel the card and move????

disgusting i wont use them!!

Answer 5

I am with a broker and they don't charge extra fees. They charge a one of fee when I renew my policy and that's for them checking out the best deal for me.

If I have to change something or add there is no charge.

Your broker sounds like a greedy shark and the sooner you get shot of them the better.

Answer 6

You're with a broker.  If you want them to do the work for you, they can charge you an admin fee.  You could always go direct to the insurer and renew it or cancel it without paying the broker a fee.

I suggest you find a better deal online.  Don't cancel your old policy - just don't pay any money and it will lapse.

Answer 7

With regards to the top answer, make sure they ain't going to take out he money automatically. I have a renewal quote saying if I'm happy with it, then do nothing and they will automatically take the payment and renew the policy.