Brokerbility’s chairman on the changing social climate

A familiar picture is emerging from businesses caught up in the inner-city riots. The majority are uninsured or under-insured, and the Riot (Damages) Act may not cover business interruption or loss of attraction.

Once again the finger of blame will unfairly point at the insurance industry. Insurers can only respond by insisting on the primacy of sound underwriting principles. To allow exemplary underwriting and equitable settlement of claims to slide in these circumstances will set dangerous precedents.

But the riots are also part of a broader theme: a changing social climate. Insurers are responding to a new breed of claims, such as a dramatic rise in thefts from farms, cyber crime and the targeting of lead from roofs. The complexity of ensuring appropriate protection for small businesses is stretching the scope of online products. In short, these new risks mean that the advice of experienced brokers is needed now more than ever.

Ashwin Mistry is chairman of Brokerbility

The 2025 Insurance Times Awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 3rd December in the iconic Great Room of London’s Grosvenor House.

Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
Many congratulations to all the worthy winners and as always, huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and our judges for their expertise.

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