Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by Mortgage Solutions. Read the original article for full details.

AMI Chief Highlights Ongoing Protection Gap at Mortgage Vision 2026

Stephanie Charman, chief executive of the Association of Mortgage Intermediaries (AMI), addressed delegates at Mortgage Vision 2026, focusing on the persistent protection gap in the UK. Charman stated that 58% of adults in the UK do not hold any protection product, despite 80% of protection sales being completed through intermediaries.

Charman highlighted the significant role that advisers play in addressing the protection gap, noting that the majority of protection sales are made via intermediaries. However, she warned that a substantial shortfall remains, with an estimated 15 million unmet protection needs across the market.

According to Charman, consumer behaviour is a major barrier to greater uptake of protection products. She said that many consumers prioritise immediate spending over long-term financial security, underestimate their risk of illness or death, and often assume protection products are more expensive than they actually are.

Charman also pointed to a disconnect between advisers and clients. While adviser research indicates that more protection conversations are taking place, relatively few consumers recall having these discussions. She suggested that the timing of protection conversations within the mortgage process may be a factor, as clients are often focused on moving home and other aspects of the purchase at the point when these discussions occur.

Charman acknowledged that there is no single solution to the problem and called for improved customer engagement through better communication and operational improvements. She warned that lengthy application and underwriting processes continue to contribute to customer drop-off, stating that improvements are needed throughout the protection journey.

This ongoing protection gap and the challenges in addressing it are relevant for UK letting agents and inventory clerks, as they highlight the importance of clear communication and process efficiency in supporting clients through property transactions.