What is an insurance broker?

What's covered:

• What’s the difference between an insurance agent and broker?
• The Howden difference
• 8 benefits of using an insurance broker

Put simply, an insurance broker is an intermediary between a client (that’s you) and one or multiple insurance companies. Brokers act as your trusted adviser, from understanding your insurance needs and finding tailored coverage, right through to supporting you during the claims process.

Howden Insurance is one of the UK’s biggest insurance brokers. We go even further with branches available across the country, catering to the needs of our local communities, both 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 types of insurance, such as income protection or critical illness, need to be tailored to suit your individual needs.

Also, there are many specialist insurance products that you won't usually find on mainstream comparison websites. So, if you need to cover an unusual property, a high-value antique or a high-performance car, for example, our brokers can help.

Our specialist brokers take the time to get to know you and gather information about your individual circumstances. They search through all the available insurance products to find you the right cover, at the right price.

What's more, our advisers don't earn commission. Impartial and independent, they're focused on delivering you the right insurance. Our expert teams make understanding your individual needs and finding the perfect cover their priority – all with a friendly and experienced approach.

What’s the difference between an insurance agent and broker?

Insurance agents work on behalf of insurance companies, helping them attract new clients. They can only offer policies from the insurers they’re tied to, meaning your options are limited to a narrower selection of products.

Insurance brokers, however, work for you. Brokers know that every insurer has its strengths, so they search across a wider market to find the most suitable solution. As a broker, we can find you competitive insurance deals and help you make an informed decision that serves you, not the insurer.

Once you’ve got a broker you trust, you won’t need to shop around every year. From car insurance to health insurance, they’ll do the hard work for you, making sure you always have the best deal.

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 a service from real people who are easy to talk to and dedicated to helping you find what you need.

You'll find us in convenient locations across the UK, meaning that you can quickly and simply consult with an insurance agent about products and claims.

8 benefits of using an insurance broker

1. Access to a wider market

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.

2. Finding the right product for you

Our brokers will understand your personal circumstances and requirements to find you the right insurance 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.

3. Intelligent risk management

We've worked with so many businesses and clients over the years, so we know where people make mistakes and don't protect themselves adequately against risks. Insurance brokers can provide advice and valuable insights into risk management trends.

4. Building safer businesses

We have an excellent track record of supporting businesses of all sizes. From employee wellbeing to cybersecurity, we help protect what matters most and support your long-term prosperity.

5. Finding specialist providers

Some types of insurance need to be tailored to your individual needs, so buying them through a comparison site could mean you buy cover that isn't the right fit. 

You also won’t find cover for niche areas on many comparison sites, so whether it's for a classic car, fine art, or a family heirloom, our brokers can help you find the right policy.

6. Advice from experts

Our specialists have a great knowledge of the insurance market, because of the amount of insurance providers they work with day in, day out. We can help you make good decisions, which are backed by educated industry advice, and fully understand what can sometimes be a challenging industry to wrap your head around.

7. Upholding your reputation

Had a few claims in the past? Even with claims on your record, we’ll help you build a strong case and present it to insurers in the most favourable way, so you can get the right cover without compromise.

8. Claims - no hassle.

Claims made against your insurance can impact your future premiums. As your broker, we'll protect your interests with expertise, industry knowledge, and genuine care.

• You want your claim settled fast. We’ve made it happen faster than clients thought possible, often stepping in when other brokers fall short.

• 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.

Looking for an insurance broker near you? Visit our Branch Finder to find your local Howden Branch.