We can only go by our underwriters claims stats, unfortunately we have little or no say when it comes to which areas are restricted/excluded etc. Each underwriter will have their own stats. We questioned one particular area recently and asked for the exclusion to be lifted but were told there was a significant level of fraudulent activity in the area and our request was denied
On a personal note, I find it frustrating and I have a similar problem. I live in St Albans, quite an affluent area. I live off the beaten track, and you have to go through an electronic gate to get to my drive way. My postcode is classed as high risk due to being in close proximity to Hatfield, which IS classed as high risk.
Also, and I have stated this before.. as a company it is hugely frustrating when you have a customer on the phone who is a perfect insurance risk and you have to say no or provide an expensive price on the basis of the postcode.
Also, we can quote in the BD area (as we have indeed done in this case) but usually we apologise and explain to the customer that it is an area which we really struggle with and we would be uncompetitive. Some people push for a price though.
Ollie
Sky Insurance