Members of the broker alliance Unitas have reported that rate softening in commercial lines is "widespread".
According to a survey of Unitas' 11 member brokers, the majority of renewals are being completed at last year's rates or lower across the UK in most commercial classes, except liability.
But the survey found some differences according to class of business, with the greatest price pressure in property and motor fleet risks.
It also found differences in regional locations with increased terms being sought, as a matter of course, only in certain parts of Scotland. But even then, its members said lower terms are often available for better performing risks.
Unitas chief executive Les Jackson said: "The message from around the country is that rates are coming down.
"While we could have anticipated that we might see some downward correction to rating for some classes, it is difficult to understand the rationale where it is not supported by lower exposure.
"In many cases lower rates are being driven by the availability of new capacity and the activities of a small number of brokers looking to exploit the soft market by pitching for business on a mandate to cut premiums.
"Most holding markets seem to be taking the view that they need to follow the market down to retain business."
