We’re delighted to announce the latest addition to our Private Clients team: renovation insurance specialist Sonia Hazelwood, who joins us as Senior Account Executive & Renovations Manager.
Sonia brings over 23 years of personal insurance experience and a deep understanding of contract works and renovation cover. She spent more than eight years at PIB, where she established their renovations team, and now brings that expertise to C&C.
Her insurance journey began, as she puts it, “with the simple need to get a job.” Starting as a Claims Dispute Handler at Norwich Union, Sonia discovered her passion for the sector and steadily built her knowledge, eventually leading to her becoming a go-to for all things renovation insurance.
“It’s a very niche area,” Sonia explains. “Standard buildings insurance is unlikely to cover building works, even things as straightforward as a loft conversion or renovations to kitchens and bathrooms. And while builders or architects can provide professional advice in their field, they’re not insured to advise clients on insurance cover. That’s why it’s of utmost importance that we educate clients before they start a project.”
So, how did Sonia’s and C&C’s paths come to cross?
It was sparked by Emma Proctor, Director of C&C Private Clients, contacting her through LinkedIn, which led to a phone call. Sonia says: “In truth, I didn’t know much about C&C Private Clients, but Emma shared a fantastic vision, and without even overly focusing on the company’s values, they really shone through and resonated with me. We followed that up with lunch in Leeds, and my mind was made up. I love everything about working at an independent brokerage; the adaptability, speed of response and client focus are so empowering. I just knew this had to be my next step.”
Emma says, “The whole team is thrilled to welcome Sonia. She’s highly experienced, understands the unique service expectations of private clients, and her renovation expertise strengthens an area where demand is growing rapidly.”
Life Outside Work
Based in Kettering, Sonia balances her career with a busy family life. She and her husband are “taxi and cheerleaders” for their son, a talented young footballer already training with Aston Villa and Peterborough Utd development squads, as well as playing for multiple local teams. When not on the touchline, Sonia also finds time for Cubs, Kung Fu, and swimming lessons – not to mention family walks with Franklin, the family’s 12-year-old Beagle.
Looking Ahead at C&C
Sonia is excited to build her portfolio at C&C, focusing on introducers such as architects and interior designers, and helping clients avoid the pitfalls of underinsurance during renovation projects.
“With covenants understandably in place from PIB, I’m starting afresh, which is energising,” Sonia says. “I’m looking forward to networking, building relationships, and spreading the word about renovation insurance both within and beyond C&C. There’s so much potential to go at!”
Malcolm Cooke, Managing Director of C&C, adds:
“Sonia’s arrival is perfectly timed. Emma’s team is busier than ever, and renovation insurance is an area that’s often overlooked, until it causes real headaches. With Sonia’s knowledge and passion, we’re perfectly placed to support clients and raise awareness. Welcome to the C&C family, Sonia!”
For a no-obligation review of your renovation or contract works insurance, you can reach Sonia directly at Sonia.Hazelwood@cc-insure.com or on 07751 710559
