FCA Sets 2026 Insurance Priorities With Focus on Claims, Access and Fair Value

FCA Sets 2026 Insurance Priorities With Focus on Claims, Access and Fair Value

Date: 24 February 2026 Source: Insurance Times (reporting on the FCA's Regulatory Priorities Report)

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has published its first annual Regulatory Priorities Report for the insurance sector, replacing the previous system of portfolio letters. The report sets out the regulator's expectations for UK insurers across 2026, with a focus on improving consumer understanding, claims handling, service quality and access to insurance for vulnerable customers (Insurance Times, 2026a).

Under the new framework, the FCA wants insurers to clearly explain what their policies cover, test customer understanding, respond fairly and promptly to claims, and track how well their products work for consumers. The regulator also said it will keep monitoring premium finance, where many drivers pay for cover in monthly instalments, and will review travel insurance underwriting for people with pre-existing mental health conditions (Insurance Times, 2026a).

For UK insurance customers, the report signals that fair treatment, clearer communication and better claims experiences will remain central regulatory priorities throughout 2026. ICUK Insurance keeps a close eye on FCA developments to make sure customers can navigate the market with confidence and find suitable cover for their needs.

Reference: Insurance Times (2026a) 'FCA details insurance ambitions for 2026 in new Regulatory Priorities report', Insurance Times, 24 February. Available at: https://www.insurancetimes.co.uk/news/fca-details-insurance-ambitions-for-2026-in-new-regulatory-priorities-report/1457848.article (Accessed: 25 February 2026).