I'm a smoker. Will this affect my cover? What substances count towards smoking?

Short answer: yes.

Smokers may be more likely to develop some serious health problems, making it tougher for insurance companies to cover them. This means a lower benefit amount may be available to you, compared to someone who does not smoke.

By the way, "smoking" means any substance - both legal and illegal - including things like tobacco, e-cigarettes and nicotine patches. To be considered a non-smoker, you must be smoke-free for at least 12 months before the date you buy a new policy or update one you've already purchased.