Home insurance can cover the building, the contents inside it, or both, against the risks the policy lists. These commonly include fire, certain natural events, theft and some kinds of accidental damage. Cover applies only to events the policy names, and only up to the sum insured.
The sum insured is usually worked out from the cost to rebuild or replace, not the market price of the property. Exclusions, deductibles and the way a claim is valued are set out in the policy document.
People who rent can often cover their belongings without covering the building, while owners may want both. Keeping records of valuables, such as receipts and photographs, makes a claim easier to support.
Dhimson Cover provides general information only. We do not sell, arrange, compare or recommend any policy. For advice about your own circumstances, speak to a suitably licensed professional.
Key points
- Building cover and contents cover can be taken together or separately
- Cover applies only to the risks the policy names
- The sum insured is usually based on rebuilding or replacement cost
- Exclusions and how claims are valued are in the policy document
- Records of valuables and purchase documents make a claim easier to support
General information only — not financial, legal or tax advice. Dhimson Cover does not sell, arrange, compare or recommend any product. Rules, terms and conditions differ between providers and change over time, so always read the provider's own documents or the official source.