Your home is your biggest investment—so protecting it with the right insurance is crucial. But with so many policies, excess fees, and confusing terms, how do you know which one is best?
This guide explains everything—types of house insurance, average costs, top providers, and how to save money. Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or tenant, this article will help you get the best cover at the lowest price.
What is House Insurance & Why Do You Need It?
House insurance (also called home insurance) protects your property and belongings from:
✔ Fire, floods, storms – Damage to your home’s structure.
✔ Burglary & theft – Stolen or damaged possessions.
✔ Accidental damage – Spills, broken windows, etc.
✔ Legal costs – If someone sues you for injury in your home.
Is House Insurance Mandatory in UK?
✅ NO—but most mortgage lenders require it.
✅ Tenants should get contents insurance (landlord covers the building).
Types of House Insurance in UK (2024)
1. Buildings Insurance
✔ Covers structure of your home (walls, roof, floors).
✔ Needed for mortgaged properties.
✔ Cost: £100 – £300/year (depends on rebuild cost).
2. Contents Insurance
✔ Covers furniture, electronics, clothes inside your home.
✔ Best for renters & homeowners.
✔ Cost: £50 – £150/year (based on belongings’ value).
3. Combined Buildings & Contents
✔ Best value—covers both structure and belongings.
✔ Cost: £150 – £400/year.
4. Landlord Insurance
✔ Extra cover for rental properties (missed rent, tenant damage).
✔ Cost: £200 – £600/year.
5. High-Value Home Insurance
✔ For luxury homes (£500k+) or expensive items (art, jewellery).
✔ Cost: £500 – £2,000/year.
How Much Does House Insurance Cost in UK?
| Type of Cover | Average Yearly Cost |
|---|---|
| Buildings Only | £100 – £300 |
| Contents Only | £50 – £150 |
| Buildings + Contents | £150 – £400 |
| Landlord Insurance | £200 – £600 |
| High-Value Home | £500 – £2,000 |
Factors That Affect Price:
✔ Location – High-crime areas = higher premiums.
✔ Claims history – More claims = higher cost.
✔ Excess amount – Higher excess = lower premium.
✔ Security – Alarms & locks = discounts.
How to Get CHEAPER Home Insurance
1. Increase Your Excess
✔ Paying first £250-£500 of claims lowers premiums.
2. Install Security
✔ Burglar alarms & CCTV cut costs by 10-20%.
3. Bundle Policies
✔ Buying buildings + contents together saves money.
4. Pay Annually
✔ Monthly payments add 10-15% interest.
5. Compare Every Year
✔ Loyalty costs you—insurers raise prices yearly.
Best Home Insurance Providers in UK (2024)
🏆 Direct Line – Best for quick claims.
🏆 Aviva – Top customer service.
🏆 LV= – Great contents cover.
🏆 Hastings Direct – Cheapest for basic cover.
🏆 John Lewis – Best high-value policies.
Pro Tip: Use CompareTheMarket or MoneySuperMarket to find the best deal in minutes.
Common House Insurance Mistakes
❌ Underinsuring – £200k cover won’t rebuild a £400k house.
❌ Not Covering Accidental Damage – Spilling paint on carpets isn’t always included.
❌ Auto-Renewing – You could overpay by £100+/year.
❌ Not Updating After Renovations – New kitchen? Tell your insurer!
❌ Assuming Flood Risk is Covered – Some exclude flood damage.
FAQs About House Insurance in UK
❓ Does home insurance cover leaks?
✅ Yes—if sudden (e.g., burst pipe). ❌ No—if gradual (e.g., slow drip).
❓ Are garden sheds covered?
✅ Sometimes—check your policy.
❓ Can I cancel my policy early?
✅ Yes, but you may pay a £50-£100 fee.
❓ Does landlord insurance cover tenant damage?
✅ Yes, but check the claim limits.
❓ How do I lower premiums as a young homeowner?
✔ Increase excess, add security, compare quotes yearly.
Final Verdict: Is House Insurance Worth It?
✅ YES—if you own a home (mortgage lenders require it).
✅ YES—if you rent (contents cover protects your stuff).
✅ YES—if you can’t afford big repair bills.
Don’t wait—compare quotes today & save £££!
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