Getting quotes · UK

Getting PI insurance quotes — UK 2026

Reviewed by Apex Insurance Brokers (FCA FRN 724952) · Published 15 July 2026

PI quotes vary widely between insurers — both on price and cover. Preparing the submission properly and approaching the right markets matters more than trying every insurer.

Preparing the submission

Firm details, structure, and headcount.
Current-year fee income and next-year projection.
Work profile (percentages by service line).
Territorial split (UK / EU / US / Rest of World).
Claim history: five years minimum, including notifications.
Risk-management processes and any material process changes.
Any regulatory correspondence (SRA, ARB, FCA, RICS).
Current cover schedule and expiring premium if switching.

Broker vs direct

For regulated professions, broker is almost always the answer — direct insurer quotes rarely deliver as well.

Specialist brokers with wholesale market access reach insurers direct approach cannot.

Consumer Duty (PRIN 2A) discipline means brokers document why placements are made — a benefit at claim time.

Direct-writer options exist for smaller/lower-risk consultancies but have real limitations at claim time.

Timing

Start 12-16 weeks before renewal for most firms; 20 weeks for larger placements.

Solicitors: allow for the 1 October market rhythm.

Don't leave to the last 7 days — underwriter attention drops.

Mid-term placements need at least 2 weeks; longer for complex risks.

What makes quotes comparable

Same aggregate limit and structure (aggregate vs each-and-every).
Same retroactive date.
Same excess/deductible.
Same territorial scope.
Same wording features (aggregation, defence costs in-addition, extensions).
Same insurer financial-strength profile.

Frequently asked

How long does it take to get a PI quote?

Standard placements: 5-15 working days from complete submission. Complex placements or difficult risks: 3-6 weeks.

Should I get multiple quotes?

For most placements, 2-3 quotes provide good market coverage. More than that rarely delivers additional value.

Do quotes include commission?

Broker commission is normally included in the gross premium quoted.

Can I ask for quote breakdowns?

Yes — specialist brokers routinely provide sub-breakdowns. Direct insurers less consistently.

What if I have a claim history?

Complete disclosure is essential. Understating a claim history breaches fair-presentation duty and may void cover.

Does the cheapest quote win?

Rarely, for anything except the simplest risks. Cover, insurer strength and claim-handling quality matter more.

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Apex Insurance Brokers Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Firm reference number 724952. Registered in England and Wales, company number 07014570.

Offices: QCS, 53 Queen Charlotte Street, Bristol BS1 4HQ · Unit 24, Basepoint Centre, Jubilee Close, Weymouth DT4 7BS