I've had depression - now no one will insure my mortgage

Q I was off work with depression in May 2004 and have been unable to find any mortgage payment protection or ASU providers willing to cover me now. What can I do?

LH

A Although it can be harder to find MPPI/ASU cover once you have suffered from any condition normally covered by these policies, it shouldn't be impossible. Your best bet is to use an insurance broker, who will have access to a wide range of insurers and policies.

If you can't get a personal recommendation, try the British Insurance Brokers Association - its search facility allows you to source local accredited brokers by either location or insurance type.

But be warned: although going through a broker isn't necessarily any more expensive than buying insurance direct, you're likely to face higher than average premiums because of your earlier illness.