123.ie is indeed another significant player in the Irish home insurance market that’s worth considering for your Wexford property. Here’s how it compares to the providers I previously mentioned:
123.ie Home Insurance
Positives:
- Generally competitive pricing, often coming in lower than some traditional insurers
- Owned by RSA Insurance Group (a well-established international insurer), providing financial stability
- Straightforward online quote system that’s easy to navigate
- Good level of standard coverage including accidental damage on many policies
- Flexible payment options including monthly instalments without significant penalties
- Strong customer service ratings, with Irish-based call centres
- Good digital self-service options through their website and app
Limitations:
- Being primarily an online broker means fewer physical locations if you prefer face-to-face service
- Some customers report that claims can take longer to process than with direct insurers
- Renewal premiums can increase sharply after the first year
- Policies may have more standard exclusions that require add-ons compared to premium insurers
- May have stricter criteria for older or non-standard construction properties
How 123.ie Compares to Other Providers
Compared to the providers I mentioned earlier, 123.ie often positions itself as a more cost-effective option while still offering reliable coverage. It typically fits between budget insurers and premium providers like Zurich or AXA in terms of price and coverage depth.
The main advantage 123.ie has over companies like Allianz or Zurich is often price competitiveness, particularly for straightforward properties without unusual features. Their online-first approach typically results in lower operating costs that can be passed on as savings.
However, companies like FBD might have an edge for rural properties in Wexford specifically, as they have specialized understanding of rural Irish property needs. Aviva and AXA might offer more comprehensive standard packages, albeit at higher premiums.
For your specific property in Scullaboge with features like oil heating, a treatment plant, and a detached garage, I would recommend getting quotes from both 123.ie and at least two of the other providers mentioned (perhaps FBD for their rural property expertise and either Zurich or Allianz for their comprehensive coverage options). This will give you a good price and coverage comparison across different tiers of the market.
When comparing quotes, pay particular attention to how each company handles:
- Coverage for outbuildings like your detached garage
- Treatment plant coverage and potential damage/liability
- Oil heating system coverage, including any potential leakage
- The specific rebuild value based on your survey
123.ie could potentially offer good value, but make sure any policy you choose adequately covers these specific features of your property, even if it means paying a bit more for appropriate coverage levels.