Mortgages & life/critical illness cover - talk to me

[D-Angle]

So the other half and I are moving in together, which means our first mortgage. No problems with deposit, and we have an agreement in principle, I'm just a bit lacking in knowledge on life cover in relation to mortgages and could do with some idiot-level advice.

Obviously the mortgage broker is keen for us to go with him for this cover, and I have always heard you should get it yourself from elsewhere. But why? What should I be looking for? I don't mind the idea of critical illness cover (I know it's not mandatory but at the right price I'd rather have it), any pointers for good providers?

[D-Angle]

Sarnie said:

Why do you think you should get this elsewhere?

Conventional thinking seems to be that mortgage providers will overcharge as most people will just go with them and get it all done together rather than shop around.

I'm always a bit dubious with insurance (paying money and hoping nothing happens that means you want some of it back) but appreciate the necessity of it, I'm just trying not to get ripped off. Some very good advice already and I may be dropping a couple of people a message, thanks.