Can my insurer cancel my policy or refuse to renew because of a claim?

Generally, insurers have freedom to decide whether to offer or renew cover, and they can assess risk, including flood risk, when setting premiums or declining. However, they must comply with the conditions in your policy on cancellation and renewal notices and treat you fairly. Under the conduct of financial institutions regime that came into force in 2025, insurers must have a fair conduct programme and treat customers fairly, so you can ask for the reasons in writing and check that the decision was not based on an error or unfair practice. Consider using an insurance broker to approach other insurers and disclose your circumstances accurately. Steps such as flood mitigation, and information from the council or the Natural Hazards Commission, can also help. If you believe the decision was unfair, complain through the insurer's complaints process.