Home (buildings) insurance
Book Home (buildings) insuranceBuildings insurance protects the physical structure of your home, including garages and outbuildings. It typically covers damage caused by perils such as fire, flood, storm, subsidence, or burst pipes. This cover is usually a requirement if you have a mortgage.
When do you need a Home (buildings) insurance?
You need buildings insurance as soon as you exchange contracts when buying a home. Most mortgage lenders require it to be in place from this point to protect their investment.
What happens on the day
A broker will discuss your property details, including its age, construction type, and security features. They will then provide you with suitable policy options and explain the terms of cover.
How to prepare
- Know the estimated rebuild cost of your property (not its market value).
- Have details of your property's construction type (e.g., brick, timber frame).
- Note the year your property was built.
- Gather information on any previous insurance claims or known structural issues.
How to improve your result
- Maintain your roof and gutters to prevent water damage.
- Service your boiler and plumbing to reduce burst pipe risks.
- Ensure trees near your property are well-maintained to prevent subsidence.
- Secure your property with good quality locks and consider an alarm.
Why it is useful day to day
Provides essential financial protection for your most valuable asset, your home. It ensures you can afford significant repairs after unexpected damage, safeguarding your investment and providing security.
Why we ask these questions
We ask about your property's age and construction materials as these influence the risk and potential repair costs. Information on past claims or any history of subsidence helps assess future risks accurately.