Understand the risk
We identify who depends on you, what is already covered and the financial gap that remains.
SPECIALIST PROPERTY FINANCE
Critical illness cover
Financial protection if you are diagnosed with a qualifying serious illness. Speak to an adviser who will assess your full circumstances, not just a headline number.
No obligation · Initial conversation does not affect your credit score
Written and reviewed by Smart Mortgages specialistsReviewed 21 August 2026 · FCA reference 912358
How we help with critical illness cover
Good protection advice starts with the financial impact you want to guard against. We assess needs, existing benefits, budget, policy quality and underwriting before recommending suitable cover.
Compare suitable options
We compare policy definitions, benefits, exclusions, underwriting and cost, not price alone.
Put cover in place
We manage the application and explain any terms offered before the policy begins.
Financial support after a qualifying serious illness
Critical illness cover can pay a lump sum if you are diagnosed with a condition covered by the policy and meet its definition. Policies vary, so quality of cover matters as well as price.
Mortgage security
Use an eligible payout to reduce or repay borrowing after a serious diagnosis.
Recovery costs
Create financial breathing space for treatment, rehabilitation or home changes.
Policy definitions
Compare covered conditions, severity requirements and additional benefits.
Children's cover
Review whether optional or included children's benefits are relevant to the family.
Your Smart Mortgages contact
A Smart Mortgages protection adviser will compare suitable policy features and underwriting routes.
Financial support after a qualifying serious illness FAQs
Does it cover every serious illness?
No. A claim is paid only for conditions listed in the policy where the insurer's definition is met.
Can I have life and critical illness cover together?
Yes. Combined and separate arrangements are available, with different implications for how many claims may be paid.
Will previous health conditions be covered?
The insurer may exclude, rate or decline certain risks after medical underwriting. Full and accurate disclosure is essential.
Specialist knowledge that can make the difference
Our team regularly works with critical illness, family protection and mortgage cover. Policy wording and underwriting can differ significantly, so we compare suitable insurers and explain important limitations before you apply.
Frequently asked questions
Will I need medical underwriting?
Most personal protection applications include health and lifestyle questions. The insurer may request additional medical evidence depending on the cover and disclosures.
Can existing cover be reviewed?
Yes. We compare what you already have with current needs before considering whether any change is appropriate. Existing cover should not be cancelled until replacement cover is accepted and in force.
Can you help throughout the UK?
Yes. Our protection team supports clients across the UK by telephone and video as well as through our branches.