Have a look carefully at Critical Illness insurance you will find that the conditions they cover vary widely from company to company. Also be wary if the policies are taken out through the Bank/Building Society/Mortgage Provider as they will be getting a nice earner out of your monthly payments. You might be better off with Mortgage Life Assurance - check out http://www.cavendishonline.co.uk/life/ I think in exchange for a one off relatively low fee they don't take commission