Insurance comparison websites better but regulatory cover not comprehensive

General insurance aggregator websites have improved the quality of information given to consumers since FSA’s publication of desk-based review findings in May 2008. In follow-up visits to firms, accounting in total for more than 50% of the market by sales volume, the FSA noted consistent clear, fair and not misleading information but also found areas that still required attention: although the level of excess was normally available for each quote, a breakdown into compulsory and voluntary excesses was not, often because it had not been provided by the insurer; the regulator also wants to see assumptions that underpin the quote clearly displayed throughout the online application process – often factors like the applicant is the main driver and not a professional driver, they have been driving regularly since receiving their licence or that the vehicle is not used for commercial purposes, including hire, trade or delivery, are still buried in the small print. The FSA has also asked the Information Commissioner to look at the possible obligations on firms to disclose to customers if they sell on their data to third parties.