Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what steps he is taking to ensure that people that are working from home as a result of Government guidance on covid-19 continue to be insured under their existing home insurance policies in cases where those polices may not cover home working.

On Tuesday 17 March the Chancellor announced that the Government would do whatever it takes to get our nation through the impacts of COVID-19 and that he stands ready to announce further action wherever necessary. The Government is in continual dialogue with the insurance sector about its contribution to handling this unprecedented situation.

The FCA expects insurers to take into account any change in a customer’s circumstances because of coronavirus, such as working from home or driving to work. Insurers should ensure that any change in circumstances to comply with government advice and requirements does not impact their customer’s current home contents or motor policy.

In addition, the FCA’s rules require insurers to handle claims fairly and promptly; provide reasonable guidance to help a policyholder make a claim, and appropriate information on its progress; not reject a claim unreasonably; and settle claims promptly once settlement terms are agreed.