Broker transition · UK
What a good PI broker transition looks like
Reviewed by Matthew Bartlett, Director, Apex Insurance Brokers Limited (FCA FRN 724952) · Published 15 July 2026
Not all broker switches go well. The good ones share specific characteristics — documentation, insurer engagement, and structured onboarding.
Week 1 — the formal transition
- Signed TOBA with new broker.
- Formal revocation with old broker.
- Broker of Record letter to insurer.
- Initial file transfer — policy, correspondence, claim history.
- Confirmation of continuity of cover from insurer.
Weeks 2-4 — getting up to speed
- New broker reviews the file completely.
- Initial call with insurer — introductory, not adversarial.
- Meeting or call with the firm to understand the practice, priorities and any concerns.
- Identification of upcoming milestones (renewal, MTA, claims).
- Documentation of the firm's risk profile as broker sees it.
Months 2-3 — getting to work
- First MTA if needed, handled properly.
- Renewal calendar established with adequate lead time.
- Any pending issues addressed with specificity.
- Broker's view on cover-adequacy shared with firm.
- Any recommended changes explained with rationale.
Months 4-12 — showing value
- First renewal comes and is handled with 12-16 weeks lead time.
- Sector-specific issues raised proactively.
- Wholesale market approached where appropriate.
- Claim handling if arises — broker is engaged from notification.
- Fair-value assessment documented for Consumer Duty.
- Broker-firm review conversation at the end of the year.
Red flags in a transition
- New broker takes weeks to acknowledge the switch.
- File transfer incomplete or delayed.
- Named broker changes within the first 3 months.
- Renewal calendar not set with adequate lead time.
- Insurer relationship not established.
- No proactive engagement in the first 6 months.
- Cover recommendations without explanation.
Frequently asked
How do I know a broker transition is going well?
Structured, timely, communicative. Fewer surprises. Clear ownership of your account.
What if the new broker seems slow?
Raise it early. First 30 days set the tone.
Does the new broker need to meet me in person?
Not essential but usually helpful. Understanding the firm needs a direct conversation.
How much documentation should the new broker want?
Complete file — policy, correspondence, claims. That's standard.
What if the transition uncovers issues with the old broker?
Address separately. The primary task is getting the transition right for your firm.
How long before I know if it was the right decision?
Give it at least one renewal cycle. First-year impressions are important but not definitive.
Related
- How to switch PI broker without disruption
- Will switching PI broker affect my cover?
- When not to switch PI broker UK 2026
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