Unable to Get Motor Insurance in Ireland? What to Do If You’re Refused a Quote
Motor insurance is a legal requirement for all drivers in Ireland. However, some motorists find themselves in the frustrating position of being unable to obtain a quote at all. Whether this arises due to driving history, residency status, vehicle type, or other underwriting factors, being declined does not mean you are without options.
Understanding how the Irish motor insurance market operates, and the protections available, is the first step towards resolving the situation.
Why You May Be Unable to Obtain a Quote
Insurers assess risk based on a range of underwriting criteria. These commonly include driving experience, claims history, penalty points, type of vehicle, occupation, age, and residency status. If an applicant falls outside an insurer’s appetite for risk, the company may decline to provide a quote.
The Central Bank of Ireland requires insurers to act honestly, fairly and professionally in the best interests of customers, but insurers are not obliged to offer cover in every case. A refusal may occur if required information is incomplete, if there is insufficient driving history in Ireland, or if previous claims or convictions affect the risk assessment.
It is important to ensure that all details provided are accurate and complete. Even minor discrepancies (such as incorrect licence details) can prevent an online quotation system from generating a price.
The Declined Cases Agreement
If you have approached at least three insurers and have been unable to secure a quotation, you may be eligible under the industry’s Declined Cases Agreement.
Insurance Ireland operates this agreement on behalf of its member companies. In general terms, if you have been declined or refused a quote by three insurers, the first insurer you approached may be required to provide a quotation under the agreement.
There are procedures to follow:
You must be able to show that you sought quotes from three insurers.
The refusals must relate to the same type of cover.
You may need written confirmation of the refusals.
The insurer approached first may then be obliged to issue a quotation, subject to policy terms and conditions.
While the premium offered under the Declined Cases Agreement may be higher than standard market rates, it ensures that motorists are not left without access to legally required cover.
Contacting the Declined Cases Committee
If you believe you qualify under the agreement, you can contact Insurance Ireland directly for guidance on the process. The Declined Cases Committee reviews applications and ensures that member insurers comply with the terms of the agreement.
This mechanism provides an important safeguard within the Irish motor insurance market, particularly for drivers who may be considered higher risk.
Considering a Specialist or Broker
In some situations, drivers fall outside the criteria of mainstream insurers but may still obtain cover through specialist markets.
A regulated insurance broker can approach multiple insurers on your behalf, including providers that do not deal directly with the public. Brokers can also clarify underwriting queries in advance, reducing the likelihood of automatic online refusals.
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission advises consumers to shop around and compare options carefully. Brokers may be particularly helpful for:
Drivers with previous claims or convictions
Individuals returning to Ireland after time abroad
New residents without Irish driving history
Owners of modified or high-performance vehicles
Seeking professional advice can often identify solutions that are not visible through standard online quotation systems.
Ensuring Your Information Is Accurate
Before assuming that insurance is unavailable, review the information provided in previous applications. Confirm:
Your driver number is correct
Your no claims bonus documentation is up to date
All convictions and claims are accurately disclosed
Your address and vehicle details match official records
Insurers rely heavily on accurate data. Even small inconsistencies can prevent a quotation from being generated.
Understanding That Premium and Availability Differ
There is an important distinction between being declined entirely and receiving a quotation at a high premium. In some cases, a quote may be available but at a cost that feels prohibitive. While pricing reflects risk assessment and market conditions, the Declined Cases Agreement applies specifically to situations where cover is refused, not simply where the premium is high.
If You Still Cannot Secure Cover
If, after contacting insurers and reviewing your details, you remain unable to obtain a quotation:
Confirm you have approached at least three insurers.
Obtain written confirmation of refusal where possible.
Contact Insurance Ireland to enquire about the Declined Cases process.
Consider engaging a regulated broker to explore specialist markets.
Motor insurance is mandatory for driving in Ireland, and the market framework is designed to ensure access to cover, even where risks are considered non-standard.
Need More Assistance?
If you have further questions regarding the Declined Cases Agreement or motor insurance generally, you can contact Insurance Ireland’s Information Services team:
Email: feedback@insuranceireland.eu
Tel: (01) 676 1820
Understanding your options and acting promptly can help ensure that you remain compliant with legal requirements while securing appropriate protection on the road.