Prestige Underwriting has reported rising demand in key non-standard home and motor insurance segments, according to its latest broker survey. The findings suggest that brokers are continuing to prioritise specialist solutions in response to evolving client requirements.
Unoccupied homes were identified as the leading growth area, with 75% of brokers citing this segment, up from 55% the previous year. Properties at risk of flooding saw similar growth, rising to 64% from 55%. Interest in thatched properties also increased, up from 12% to 17%, while homes at risk of subsidence remained steady, with 27% of brokers still seeing potential despite a slight decline.
In the motor market, demand for insurance covering high-performance vehicles also rose, with 36% of brokers marking this as a key segment, compared to 32% in 2024.
According to Prestige, the findings reflect a shift in client needs and a growing reliance on brokers to identify and address more specialised risks. The company pointed out that broker feedback has influenced product development, including involvement with Flood Re and the introduction of its short-term unoccupied property insurance product, designed to cater to homes in probate.
The survey results come at a time when the UK insurance market faces several challenges, including rising claims costs, inflation, and the increasing frequency of climate-related events. These factors have contributed to higher premiums and a more cautious approach to risk selection, particularly in the home insurance sector. Properties exposed to flood, subsidence, or other environmental risks are becoming more of a focus as insurers adjust their pricing models in response to these challenges, Prestige said.
In the motor insurance sector, the non-standard market has seen a renewed focus as insurers aim to differentiate themselves in a competitive environment. High-performance and modified vehicles, which are often overlooked by standard policies, are becoming a key area of interest for brokers seeking to offer more specialised coverage.
