When in doubt ask the product provider to carry out a survey to make sure that the provider is fully aware of all the risks involved and the risk assessment is accurate. You may think that you are saving a few pounds up front by being less than truthful in completing the application form, but in the long term if there is a claim, and your disclosure was not totally honest you are in danger of having your claim rejected.

Commercial insurance risk policies need to be dealt with by a very competent broker, and a recommendation should be sought from a professional body or a business colleague who has had good service from a broker.

Landlords or potential landlords should take care when arranging insurance cover on commercial or buy to let properties. There are too many horror stories of landlords putting in claims which are being rejected out of hand because they have not been totally honest with the details of the property, its use or associated risks, or have not understood what they are being asked to provide.