When it comes to getting the best deal on insurance and getting a solution that fits your needs, you have to shop around.

That’s advice from www.hippo.co.za’s general manager Amanda Thomas.

“If you haven’t shopped around, how can you be sure that you are getting the best deal? And, if you haven’t compared the solutions of the different providers, how will you know if there’s another solution that would better suit your needs?” she questions.

“Insurance rates and products vary from one insurance provider to the next and you are very rarely comparing apples with apples. What might seem like the best deal at first glance because it’s the cheapest might not be the most appropriate deal in terms of meeting your insurance needs.

“By shopping around you can ensure that you get the most competitive insurance rates and the best levels of cover for your needs,” she says.

Thomas says consumers should be wary of basing their decision purely on price.

“Remember that it is also not always the best idea to go with the cheapest quote, and you should always compare “apples with apples”.

“As such, aside from price, you need to consider the levels of cover, the conditions of cover and the excess you will be responsible for if you are involved in an accident or if your home is broken into. Also, think about aspects like customer service because in the event of you having to make a claim, you will want your insurance provider to be as helpful and supportive as possible,” she advises.

Thomas admits that comparing insurance quotes can be somewhat bewildering because it’s almost impossible to evaluate them like-for-like.

“The insurance industry has changed drastically over the years and, thanks to technology, providers are able to offer a far wider choice of products to cater to different markets.

“Rather than trying to compare quote for quote, you might find it helpful to create a check list against which you should evaluate the offerings of the different insurers you request quotes from. By doing this, you can see how each provider measures up against your specific requirements. For instance, if you feel it’s important that your insurance provider offers roadside assistance or covers vehicle customisations, then you should look for providers that can service those ideals.

“Remember that some insurance companies have structured offerings to address the needs of certain categories. So, if you are under the age of 25, a pensioner or a woman, you might well find that you will get the best deal and price from a provider that has solutions tailored for the category you fall into.

“The goal is to find a provider that understands your personal requirements and a solution that fits your needs. Until you have looked around, you can’t be sure that your insurances needs are being properly serviced at the most competitive price,” concludes Thomas.