That’s the view of Rudolf Britz, pictured, chief actuary at Momentum Insure, who says advisers should seize this month to help clients review their insurance cover and build a secure foundation for the year ahead.
“Reviewing your insurance cover isn’t just a transaction; it’s the base layer of security that enables progress, peace of mind, and sustained performance in the new year,” Britz says.
He emphasises that protection is a performance enabler. When clients know their key assets – from homes and cars to financial investments – are safeguarded, they can focus on growth without disruption when life inevitably happens.
“Protection is not something you think about after disruption; it is the foundation that allows you to show up fully for your ambitions, your family, and your momentum,” he explained.
Why January matters
Britz outlines three key ways a secure insurance foundation supports clients’ financial wellbeing:
Stability protects goals – Unexpected events such as a car accident or home repair can derail carefully budgeted plans, including education or property investments. Insurance absorbs the shock, helping clients stay on track toward long-term objectives.
Peace of mind boosts focus – Constant worry about floods, fires, or theft consumes mental energy. Adequate cover frees cognitive resources, letting clients direct their attention to work, family, and personal growth.
Proactive protection supports future growth – By managing risk intelligently, clients create a stable platform from which to take calculated risks and seize opportunities, confident that potential downsides are managed.
Practical steps advisers can recommend
Britz recommends an annual review to ensure clients’ cover aligns with their current circumstances. Key checks include:
Cover value – Update the replacement value of homes and contents after renovations, new purchases, or valuable holiday acquisitions to avoid underinsurance.
Vehicle details – Confirm new cars, address changes, additional or fewer drivers, and tracking devices are reflected on policies, as these impact risk and premiums.
Excess review – Adjust excess levels according to clients’ current finances, balancing lower premiums with adequate protection.
Contact details – Ensure phones, email addresses, and banking information are current to receive critical communications from insurers.
“By completing these checks and proactively securing cover with your insurer, clients don’t just renew a policy – they reset the secure foundation that allows them, their families, and their ambitions to move forward with confidence,” Britz said.
For financial advisers, January is an opportunity to add tangible value. By leading clients through this process, advisers help protect their clients’ goals, reduce anxiety, and empower them to pursue growth in the year ahead.
“Think of insurance as enabling performance rather than a grudge purchase,” Britz adds. “A secure foundation supports overall wellbeing, growth, and focus – exactly what clients need to hit the ground running in the new year.”
