How to switch from your current insurance provider to initio
Switching your house insurance to initio is quick and easy, but timing is important to make sure you stay covered every step of the way. Here’s what to do and in what order.
Key takeaways:
- You can arrange your new initio policy before cancelling your existing insurance.
- Make sure your new policy starts before or on the day your current policy ends to avoid a gap in cover.
- Complete your initio policy first, then cancel your existing insurance provider.
- Most insurance providers will refund the unused portion of your premium if you’ve paid in advance.
- Keep a copy of your new policy documents, as your current insurance provider may ask for proof of your new cover.
- Double-check your policy start and cancellation dates before making the switch.
- If you’re unsure about timing, a small overlap in cover is usually better than having no cover at all.
How to switch your insurance:
1. Get your initio policy lined up first
Before you cancel your current policy, start a quote with initio. You can do this online in minutes. Once you’re happy with the cover and price, set the start date for your new policy.
- If you want your cover to roll over seamlessly, choose the day after your current policy ends.
- If your old policy ends at midnight, set your new one to start the next day, you don’t want a gap in cover.
2. Make sure the dates line up
Your current policy should stay active until your new one begins. Even a short gap could leave you without cover if something unexpected happens.
- Example: If your old policy ends on 14 June, set your initio policy to start on 15 June.
3. Sign up with initio
Once you’ve confirmed the start date, complete the sign-up online. You’ll get instant confirmation of cover and policy documents sent straight to your inbox.
4. Cancel your old insurance
When your initio policy is locked in, contact your old insurance provider to cancel your policy from the day your new cover starts. Most providers will refund the unused portion of your premium if you’ve paid in advance.
- Be prepared for them to ask for proof of your new cover (you can email them your initio confirmation).
5. Double-check everything
Before your initio policy starts, check that:
- Your start date is correct
- You’ve got confirmation that your old policy is ending on the right date
- You’ve downloaded and saved your initio policy documents
Tip: If you’re unsure about dates, start your new policy a couple of days before your old one ends — a small overlap is better than no cover.
Frequently asked questions
Can I switch insurance before my renewal date?
Yes. You can switch to initio before your current policy reaches its renewal date. Set your new initio policy to start before your existing cover ends, then ask your current insurance provider to cancel your old policy from the correct date.
Will I get a refund from my current insurance provider?
If you have paid your premium in advance, your current insurance provider may refund the unused portion after your policy is cancelled. Contact them to confirm how their refunds and cancellation terms work.
Should I cancel my current insurance before joining initio?
No. Arrange and confirm your initio policy first. Once your new cover is in place, you can cancel your old policy from the date your initio cover starts. This helps you avoid a gap in insurance.
Is it okay for my two policies to overlap?
A short overlap is usually better than having a gap in cover. Check the start and end dates carefully so you know when each policy applies.
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