Churchill magazine

Home insurance basics

Updated on: 7 July 2021

A living room with a grey sofa and coffee table.

Home Insurance comes in a variety of different shapes and sizes depending on your needs. But, how do you know which level of cover is right for you?

The first decision you need to make is whether you need buildings insurance, contents insurance or both. Then, you can consider the different levels of cover offered by different providers, making sure all of your important things are included.

Buildings insurance

Buildings insurance protects your home against things like fire, floods and subsidence. Your home is the walls, roofs, drives and patios, as well as permanent fixtures like kitchen units, bathroom fittings and fitted wardrobes. Outbuildings such as sheds and garages are also covered.

However, buildings insurance won’t cover things like DIY accidents – for that, you’ll need to consider adding accidental damage cover.

If you live in a leasehold property, it’s likely you already pay for buildings insurance as part of a service charge. Or, if you rent privately, you’ll need to check with your landlord whether you need to take out buildings insurance.

Contents insurance

Contents insurance covers the things in your house, including all your household goods, non-permanent fixtures and fittings like carpets and curtains, and your personal belongings. It will cover loss or damage from things like fire, but also covers you against theft and vandalism.

Remember, contents insurance covers the things you own, but you’ll need to check whether accidental damage is included or added as an extra. Also, make sure to check whether you need out-of-home or personal possessions cover, which will protect your things even when you’re out and about.

And, if you have a bicycle, you may need additional bicycle insurance to cover the full cost of the bike.

The level of home insurance you decide on is up to you. It’s all about working out what you need to insure and how secure you want to feel with your cover.

Find out if Churchill Home insurance is right for you.

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