The UK insurance broking market in 2026

UK general insurance broking generates over £100 billion in gross written premium each year across commercial, personal and specialty lines. Approximately two-thirds of UK commercial insurance business is placed through intermediaries — the highest intermediation ratio in any major UK financial services market.

The broker's role has shifted significantly in recent years. Beyond simple product placement, modern commercial brokers now advise on risk transfer structure, claims defensibility, regulatory exposure, supply chain risk and cyber resilience.

What defines a firm on The Desk

An insurance broker on The Desk is an FCA-authorised firm whose regulatory status, company registration and — where applicable — Lloyd's broker registration have been independently confirmed. We verify against the FCA Register, Companies House and any declared professional body memberships.

Profiling is editorial. We report. We do not regulate.

Core broking disciplines we cover

• Commercial combined — SME through to mid-market property, liability, business interruption
• Professional indemnity — solicitors, accountants, IFAs, architects, consultants, technology
• Directors and officers — public company, private company, not-for-profit, financial institutions
• Specialty lines — cyber, marine, aviation, motor trade, fleet, construction
• Personal lines — high net worth home and motor, fine art, yacht, travel

The cheapest premium at renewal is often the most expensive at claim. Broker selection should be evaluated across both phases — not just placement.

How to read an insurance broker profile

Every broker on The Desk carries its FCA reference number, Companies House number, market access scope (Lloyd's, panel, whole of market) and declared specialisms.