Estate agents are among the most high-risk professionals on Britain's roads, with new research revealing that they face significantly higher car insurance premiums than their counterparts in other professions. According to a study by Marshall Motor Group, male estate agents were quoted an average annual premium of £429.91 – 2.6% above the overall average for males. Meanwhile, female estate agents faced a staggering 3.9% hike, with an average premium of £453.52.
The research, which analysed quotes across 100 different occupations, utilised a standardised driver profile to isolate the impact of occupation on premiums. The 'typical' driver was a 30-year-old with 12 years of no-claims bonus, driving a 2020 Ford Fiesta 1.1-litre petrol manual. Quotes were based on comprehensive cover with a £500 voluntary excess, 7,600 annual miles, and usage for social, domestic, pleasure, and commuting purposes.
Notably, the study found that female estate agents faced a substantial £23.61 premium increase compared to their male colleagues – a 5.5% difference. Furthermore, their premiums are among the highest recorded in the study, matching those for female surgeons and head teachers, and exceeding the premiums quoted for female physiotherapists and shop managers.
Male quantity surveyors, another profession within the property sector, were quoted £45.78 less annually than male estate agents, while female quantity surveyors paid £48.51 less than their estate agent counterparts. These findings suggest that insurers may perceive the estate agent profession as inherently riskier than others, leading to these elevated costs.
The study's results highlight a concerning trend in how different occupations are assessed for car insurance purposes. While the underlying reasons for these discrepancies remain unclear, the data provides a stark reminder of the financial burden imposed on estate agents by their occupation.