written by Daddybuck on 13/02/2020
I transferred my car and home insurance to Hastings direct in January 2020 as they were the most competitive competitive on line and although had some poor reviews were a well known provider.
I called to ask about adding a specific item to my home policy valued above the £1500 limit, and asked for a quote. I was given the quote at an additional £60 (almost) when the insurance for my whole home and contents, with all the bells and whistles was only £160. I was also informed that none of my property was covered away from home - when i had specified initially i wanted cover.
I informed them that I did not wish to pay such an amount as i could get specific insurance for £9 for the item.
I was then informed that because i had made the enquiry, and i was now a 'higher risk' if i failed to pay them the fee - and £20 adjustment, they would cancel my insurance immediately.
This is blackmail of the lowest kind.
I totally accept that companies need to cover costs and reduce risks, however, it is my choice whether to take on additional insurance. Hastings took that decision from me and forced me to pay extortionate fees or risk a cancelled policy. Surely this is not professional or ethical practice.
So beware- if you call seeking advice on specialist items to be added - and ask for a quote only - they will back you into a corner.
I could have let them cancel my home policy there and them. I accept that, but this would cause inconvenience and delays and I would have had to acknowledge I had had a policy cancelled by an insurance company - and that would have increased the new company bill as well.
I was left with no choice but to pay. And was then informed they would use my card for auto renewals. WRONG. I will never use them again, purely on the fact of unethical practice, even if they provide the cheapest service and a reasonable product. This is one customer they have lost - but they dont care for the little people.