Money Box Live: General insurance

BBC Radio 4's Money Box Live

Wednesday, 13 January 2010 at 1502 BST On Radio 4 and Online

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Programme transcript (21 pages)

On Wednesday's Money Box Live, Vincent Duggleby took your questions about insurance and put them to a panel of experts.

The extreme weather conditions currently being experienced across the UK are resulting in delays and cancellations for many rail and air passengers, who may have to look to their travel insurance for compensation.

Insurance companies are also reporting a steep rise in the number of motoring claims due to snow and ice related accidents.

Halifax Household Insurance say that one in six home insurance claims is for burst water pipes, estimating the average cost of repairing burst pipes and the resulting damage to be around £2,000.

So is your insurance policy proving to be value for money? The AA's most recent British Insurance Premium Index reports that car insurance premiums are rising faster than at any time over the past 15 years. The average quoted premium for an annual comprehensive car insurance policy now stands at over £821.

The average quoted premium for a buildings insurance policy rose by 9.8 per cent over the year, to over £227. The cost of contents cover has also risen following recent falls, with an average quoted premium of £125.

Whatever your question Vincent Duggleby and guests were here to offer advice.

Do you understand your policy?

Are you aware of the exclusions and excess?

Perhaps you are due to renew or purchase a policy. Can you reduce the cost without compromising your cover?

Where can you find a specialist policy?

Are you confused by insurance jargon?

Or maybe you want advice pursuing a claim.

Who can help if you have a dispute with your insurer?

Whatever your question, Vincent Duggleby and guests were ready to help.

Vincent Duggleby was joined by: