PERG 5.10 Renewals

It must be emphasised that activities which concern invitations to renew policies and the subsequent effecting of renewal of policies are likely to fall within insurance mediation activity. Those considering the need for authorisation or variation of their permissions will wish to consider whether a process of tacit renewal operates: that is, where a policyholder need take no action if he wishes to maintain his insurance cover by having his policy 'renewed'. This process will typically result in the issue of a new contract of insurance, not an extension of the period of the existing one. It may involve the activities of advising on investments, arranging and dealing in investments as agent. More specifically, preparing a 'tacit renewal' letter on behalf of an insurance undertaking is likely to amount to arranging. Where it contains a recommendation to renew existing cover this is likely to constitute advising on investments (under article 53 of the Regulated Activities Order). If the contract takes effect on the date stipulated in the renewal letter, a contract is concluded with the effect that the letter writer may be dealing in investments as agent. The process may also involve a regulated activity under article 64 (Agreeing to carry on a regulated activity).