Ask how many insurers they compare, how they are paid, and how each policy handles your history, hospitals and excess — the answers reveal a good broker fast.
How it works in practice
The first question is about reach: how many insurers do you compare? A whole-of-market broker gives you genuine choice; a single-tie or panel one does not, and you want to know which you are dealing with before you take a recommendation.
The second is about money: how are you paid — commission, a fee, or both — and roughly how much? Brokers must be transparent about payment, and a good one answers without flinching. If a policy pays them more, it is fair to ask whether that has shaped the recommendation.
The third set is about fit, and it is where a broker proves its worth. How does this policy handle my pre-existing conditions and underwriting? What is the hospital list, the out-patient limit and the excess, and why this combination for me? A broker who can answer those clearly is doing the job; one who only quotes a price is not.
Finally, check the basics you can verify yourself: the firm's FCA reference number, so you can confirm it on the register. A broker worth using will give it to you gladly.
Questions to put to the insurer or broker
- How many insurers do you compare, and are you whole-of-market?
- How are you paid, and does any policy pay you more than another?
- Why is this specific policy right for my health, hospitals and budget?
Related questions
- Are comparison sites the same as private health insurance brokers?
- Broker or direct: which is the better way to buy private health insurance?
- Can a broker get me cheaper private health insurance than going direct?
- Can a broker help me get private health insurance with a pre-existing condition?
How this site fits in
This explains how UK private health insurance brokers work in general. Health Insurance UK is not itself a broker and is not FCA-authorised; when you request a quote we introduce you to one selected FCA-authorised broker, which is responsible for any regulated advice, and we may be paid for the introduction. Always check any firm on the FCA Financial Services Register before you act, and remember a broker cannot cover a condition you already have — that is set by underwriting, not by who arranges the policy.
Get a free quote — a specialist broker calls you back, free and with no obligation.
Or see how UK cover compares and the FCA-authorised broker list.