L.F.E. - Lifeline for Ex-Offenders

Security & Risk Management




Insurance for Ex-Offenders

Do I need to advise insurance companies about my conviction - even if they don't ask the question?

The insurance industry considers unspent criminal convictions to be a "material fact". A "material fact" is one likely to influence an insurer's decision about whether or not they would accept the risk - and what premium they would charge. Despite what many people think, if you have an unspent conviction or are in any doubt as to whether a fact is "material fact" you must disclose it, irrespective of whether you are asked by the insurer.

If you do not declare your conviction you could be breaking the law and may be prosecuted for attempted fraud. Also, when a claim is made the insurer will not pay the claim. If you don't declare your conviction your insurance will be null and void and you'll have wasted your time and effort arranging it in the first place!

I arranged my insurance online and they didn't ask about my conviction. Am I covered?

If you've arranged your insurance online, there was probably a preliminary page of assumptions you'll have been asked to tick. One of these assumptions will have been related to non-motoring convictions. As advised above, you must disclose that you've had convictions. The insurance company may or may not agree to continue cover, but if they decide to cancel it they may return the entire premium that you have paid. Our advice is DON'T do it online - you are almost certainly going to arrange it incorrectly.

Is there anything else which is a "material fact" that I would disclose?

Some of the items insurers regard as "material facts" are:


The rule of thumb is: if in doubt, disclose it!

Does this only apply to business insurance? Do I or my family have to declare my convictions to my / their home insurers?

This also applies to Home insurance, regardless of whether you or another member of the household has taken out the policy. Anyone obtaining Home Buildings or Contents insurance must disclose if they have someone living with them who has unspent convictions.

What insurance do I need for my business to remain legal?

Employer's Liability insurance and Motor insurance are the only insurances required by law. However, these are not the only insurances you need to protect yourself and your business. Employer's Liability cover is required if you have anyone that works for you (even if they are not paid). The only exception to this is if you employ a member of your immediate family.

What other insurances am I likely to need?

This will vary depending on what type of business you wish to start up. It is recommended that all self-employed persons and businesses have Public Liability cover. This covers you for any damage you do to other people''s property and for any injury you may cause (excluding those to employees, who are covered under Employer's Liability). It will also cover you for legal costs incurred in defending a claim against you.

Other insurances that you may need, depending on the type if business that you run, are:


How will I know what insurance I will need?

If you speak to an independent insurance broker that specialises in insurance for ex-offenders (like ourselves), they will ask you detailed questions about the business you're going to set up, advise you on the covers you need and obtain the necessary quotations for you.

How do you get quotations?

We realise the odds are stacked against ex-offenders in the insurance market, so we deal with carefully selected insurers on a one-to-one basis, treating each case individually. We work closely with their specialised underwriters who understand that convictions do not necessarily meqan an increased risk of claims or fraud. This approach, coupled with our extensive experience in this area, means we can more easily negotiate the best possible terms for you.

If you require any information or advice, ring us on 0116 284 6090