Business Details
42 Years
experience
Trusted Rural & Business Insurance Solutions
As a family-run broker with over 40 years of experience, we have built our reputation on cultivating strong relationships with clients while maintaining the highest standards of integrity and efficiency. Founded in 1984 by Malcolm Sydenham from a modest garden shed, our journey has been marked by continuous growth and adaptation to client needsfrom life insurance to comprehensive rural and business coverage. Our team of over 30 professionals, many with more than a decade of service, combines deep industry expertise with a personal touch, ensuring tailored insurance solutions for farms, thatched properties, and businesses of all sizes.We hold Chartered Insurance Broker status and are proud to be the UK's 50th Living Pension Employer, reflecting our commitment to both client satisfaction and employee welfare. Our partnerships with the Orion Farming Group and local agricultural events underscore our dedication to rural communities, while our Lloyds Coverholder accreditation demonstrates industry recognition of our expertise.
Services
Farm Insurance
Thatch Insurance
Business Insurance
Equestrian Insurance
Commercial Fleet Insurance
Property Owner Insurance
Cyber Liability Insurance
Directors & Officers Insurance
Environmental Liabilities Insurance
Marine Cargo Insurance
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- 40 years of specialist rural insurance expertise
- Family-run business with Chartered Insurance Broker status
- Tailored policies for unique properties and agricultural needs
- Dedicated claims team with industry-leading response times
- Active supporters of farming communities and agricultural events
Associations and certifications
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
- Lloyds Coverholder
- Chartered Insurance Broker
What people say
Excellent service
Trustworthy team
Knowledgeable professionals
Smooth claims process
Personalised support
Services
Farm Insurance
Comprehensive protection for farms of all sizes, including livestock, machinery, and diversification activities. Our policies cover liabilities, fleet operations, and rural property risks. With 40 years of agricultural expertise, we provide tailored solutions that adapt to changing farming needs while maintaining competitive pricing through multiple insurer partnerships.
Thatch Insurance
Specialist coverage for thatched properties since 1989, including listed buildings and holiday homes. Policies include standard cover for fire, theft, and storm damage, plus unique extensions like alternative accommodation and religious festival gifts. Our team provides same-day quotes and partners with master thatchers for efficient claims resolution, ensuring preservation of historic properties.
Business Insurance
Custom solutions for SMEs to corporate enterprises, including liability, cyber security, and directors & officers coverage. Our Chartered Institute of Insurance qualified team designs policies that address specific industry risks while maintaining compliance with evolving regulations. We offer specialist schemes for tradesmen, property owners, and equestrian businesses through strategic insurer partnerships.
People
Tim Sydenham
Managing Director
ACII-qualified with 30 years' experience, Tim leads our family business with a focus on client relationships and strategic growth. He combines agricultural expertise with a passion for sports and wine appreciation.
Oliver Burns
Sales Director
PR-qualified insurance specialist with 15 years' experience driving sales strategy. Oliver balances marketing innovation with a love for family time and theatrical pursuits.
Lisa Mosson
Commercial Account Executive
CII-certified expert in farm insurance with 11 years' service. Lisa combines technical knowledge with practical experience from her family's agricultural background.
Chris Blackburn
Farm Account Executive
12-year veteran in rural insurance, known for field expertise and client support. Chris maintains strong connections through regular farm visits and agricultural events.
Tish Phillips
Senior Farm Claims Handler
With 5 years' experience, Tish manages complex farm claims using her equestrian and rural knowledge. She combines technical skills with practical understanding of agricultural challenges.
Questions
What types of farm insurance policies do you offer?
We provide comprehensive farm insurance including combined policies, motor fleet coverage, equestrian insurance, and specialist liability protection tailored to agricultural needs.
Do you cover listed thatched properties?
Yes, our thatch insurance since 1989 specifically covers listed buildings, holiday homes, and owner-occupied properties with standard and extended coverage options.
How quickly can I get a business insurance quote?
We typically provide business insurance quotes within 48 hours through our experienced household schemes team.
What claims support do you offer for rural properties?
Our dedicated in-house claims team with industry connections ensures efficient resolution for farm and thatched property claims, often completing cases directly with contractors.
Are your policies flexible for changing business needs?
Yes, our policies can be adjusted annually to match evolving business requirements through regular account reviews with dedicated handlers.
Do you support local agricultural communities?
We actively sponsor and attend agricultural shows, partner with farming groups, and support rural charities as part of our community commitment.
Reviews (2)
George Pothecary
Jun 12, 2020
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Critical:Professionalism,Value
I am afraid this company offers as much protection as a chocolate fire guard { looks good but offers no protection} they do not pay out on claims. They promise a lot and give no help avoid !!!!!!!!
I am afraid this company offers as much protection as a chocolate fire guard { looks good but offers no protection} they do not pay out on claims. They promise a lot and give no help avoid !!!!!!!!
Naheem Ahmed
Jun 04, 2015
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Very good Insurance company. Been here 4 years now. Just renewed my dad's taxi for another year. Very competitive quotes. Friendly staff. Speak to Rami.
