What is an insurance broker?

Put simply, an insurance broker is an intermediary between a client (that’s you) and one or multiple insurance companies. Howden Insurance is one of the UK’s biggest insurance brokers and we go even further with branches available across the country, catering to the needs of our local communities, in-person and over the phone.

We know that insurance companies don’t always advertise all their different types of insurance cover on their websites or comparison sites. Some insurances, such as income protection or critical illness need to be tailored to suit your individual needs. You also won’t find cover for niche areas on most comparison sites. So, if you need to cover an unusual property, a high-value antique or a high-performance car, for example, our brokers can help with those too.

We think it’s important that you take advice from the experts to ensure you are effectively covered in the event of claim. Our specialist brokers take the time to get to know you and fully understand your individual circumstances. They search through all available the insurance products to find the one that is just right for you – and at the right price.

What’s more, our advisors don’t earn commission. Their independence ensures they are focused on getting you the right insurance. Our expert teams make understanding your individual needs and finding the perfect cover their priority – all delivered with a friendly and experienced approach.

Who does an insurance broker act for?

An insurance broker acts on behalf of the client, not the insurance companies. Their primary responsibility is to represent the interests of the client by finding the best insurance policies tailored to their needs and budget. This approach ensures that they remain impartial and work solely for the benefit of the customer.

Why do people use insurance brokers?

People use insurance brokers because they provide expertise and impartially advise on how you can navigate the complexities of insurance policies. Brokers can access a variety of policies, including those not available on comparison websites, and can often negotiate better terms. They also manage claims on behalf of clients, simplifying the process during stressful situations.

The Howden difference

If you need to make a claim, whether it's to support your family or your business, our brokers can help by speaking to loss adjusters and insurance claims departments to make the process as smooth as possible.

We do much more than just ‘broker a deal’. We offer, impartial, qualified expertise and advice from real people who are easy to talk to and dedicated to helping you find what you need.

We’re located in convenient sites across the UK, meaning that you can quickly and simply consult with an insurance agent about products and claims.

Benefits of an Insurance Broker

Multiple Options

Insurance companies don’t always advertise all their different types of cover on their websites or comparison sites. Our brokers are able to search through all available insurance products to find the one that is just right for you.

Finding the right product for you

Our brokers will understand your personal circumstances and requirements to find you the right policy. They’ll also check your existing policies to make sure you don’t double up on something you’re already covered for. They get the best prices by comparing product features and ensuring you only pay for what you really need. And as real people, they can also be more flexible on pricing than comparison sites.

Finding specialist providers

Some insurances, such as income protection or critical illness need to be tailored to your individual needs, so buying them through a comparison site could mean you buy cover that isn’t right for your needs.

You also won’t find cover for niche areas on most comparison sites, so if you need to cover an unusual property, a high-value antique or a high performance car, for example, our brokers can help.

Claims - no hassle.

If you need to make a claim, a specialist broker like Howden can help with speaking to loss adjusters and insurance claims departments to make the process as smooth as possible.

• We do much more than just ‘broker a deal’. We offer, impartial, qualified expertise and advice from real people who are easy to talk to and dedicated to helping you find what you need.

• Our high street branches are located in convenient sites, meaning that you can quickly and simply consult with an expert about products and claims.

• We’re proud to say our people are some of the best and they stay with us for a long time, giving you continuity in your dealings with Howden.

• We’re also proud of our long-term relationships with insurers which mean we are in a position to negotiate great prices for you.

And we are more than impartial — we are on your side. With our long-term relationships with insurers, we are in a position to negotiate the claims on your behalf.

FAQs about Insurance Brokers

Who are you regulated by?

A-Plan Holdings is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). You can confirm our registration on the FCA website, Financial Services Register or by contacting the FCA on 0800 111 6768.

Do you have to be qualified to be an insurance broker?

No you don’t. However, all our advisors take the CII Certificate of General Insurance in their first year of working with us.

Do insurance brokers give advice?

Yes, insurance brokers provide expert advice on which risk management strategies and which policies best suit their clients’ insurance needs. Their advice is based on a detailed understanding and knowledge of the insurance market, ensuring clients get coverage that fits their unique circumstances.

Do insurance brokers have a duty of care?

Insurance brokers are bound by a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of their clients. This duty of care ensures that they are loyal to the client and manage any potential conflicts of interest. Upholding this effectively also means cooperating with industry bodies to ensure a strong, stable, and fair insurance market for consumers. 

Can insurance brokers collect premiums?

Insurance brokers typically facilitate the collection of premiums from clients and transfer them to the insurance carrier. However, they don’t bind the insurance coverage; only an insurance agent from the insurance company can finalise the policy.

How do brokers deal with insurers?

Through the professional development of relationships, brokers work with insurers and negotiate terms on behalf of their clients. They present clients’ risks to insurers in the best possible light to obtain favourable terms, while ensuring the chosen policy aligns with the client's needs.

What is a wholesale insurance broker?

Wholesale brokers serve as intermediaries between retail brokers and insurers. They often handle specialised or hard-to-place risks and have access to markets that retail brokers may not.

How is Howden different from other insurance brokers?

We've got a track record of being reliable and trusted, offering a personal and great value to service to clients since the 1960’s. We now have over half a million policy holders — for just about every kind of insurance. We’re very proud to be rated as "Excellent on TrustPilot" with over 50,000 reviews and love that many of our clients choose to come back to us again and again.

We were also named Insurance Broker of the Decade in 2024 at the British Insurance Awards!

How much do insurance brokers cost?

Typically, using an insurance broker does not incur direct fees for clients. Instead, brokers earn commissions from the insurance providers. Despite this, they remain obligated to act in the client’s best interest, providing impartial advice.

How will I know I get a fair price?

We guarantee to seek out the best quotes for our clients — in terms of price and cover. We are completely independent and impartial and can, therefore, always act with our clients’ best interests at heart.

What happens if I need to make a claim?

Making a claim can be stressful so we’re here to help. We help guide you through the whole process, either by talking to a claims adviser on the phone or in your local branch and they will be able to negotiate on your behalf.

Looking for an insurance broker near me? Visit out Branch Finder and find out your nearest Howden Branch is.