Yes, you do need an insurance broker (here's why)

As tempting as it may be to cut out the middle-man when taking out insurance, working through a broker is still the optimal way to ensure you have the best possible cover in place (and instant access to help when you need it).

First off, to clarify, an insurance broker's role is to help you make sense of the (sometimes) complicated world of insurance, and ensure that the cover you sign up for correctly matches your needs.

Their professional opinion in understanding the nuances of different policies can be invaluable, especially if your particular insurance case is a little different to straightforward short-term policies.

Brokers earn a commission on the policies they sell. This is paid to them by the insurance company concerned, which means you don't have to worry about paying excessive broker fees. In fact, when using a broker there are no hidden costs or monthly fees as are sometimes associated with online insurance comparison services.

Brokers do all the insurance comparisons for you - that's part of their job! They will look at all the policies available in the market and identify those that offer you the most suitable cover. This takes the guesswork out of trying to compare policies yourself, and allows for more accurate evaluations between policies with similar offerings.

When it comes to the cover itself, there are two major benefits of working with a broker: you're assured of securing just the right amount of cover, and this cover can be tailored to your specific requirements, as needed.

Being under or overinsured are both problematic, and cause issues when it comes time to claim. Your broker will ensure that you are adequately insured and not paying for insurance you don't need.

Similarly, where policies don't fully meet your insurance needs, your broker can help you secure specialist or bespoke cover for absolute peace of mind.

Then there's the cost. Brokers know what different policies in the market cost, and can ensure that you're not being overcharged for your cover. They can also assist in negotiating better rates with your insurer without corners being cut or cover being sacrificed for the sake of cost savings.

Finally brokers know the claims process inside and out, and will ease what can be a difficult time for claimants. They can assist you in lodging your claim, which can help to reduce the possibility of it being rejected by your insurance company. 

Quite simply, brokers are insurance experts. From the beginning of your insurance journey through claiming to the time you terminate your policy, your broker will guide you every step of the way. 

Their knowledge of intricate insurance policy details and their guidance when making important decisions shouldn't be underestimated.

So before you think of going it alone, consider working with a broker to help you navigate one of the most important safety nets you and your family will use for the rest of your lives.