Frequently asked questions

I don't have a lot of contents, why bother?

Many people underestimate how much it would cost them to replace their belongings if they were stolen or damaged.      

Remember, it’s not just the obvious things you would need to replace if there was a fire or flood.  As well televisions and computers, there are also white goods (fridges, microwaves), clothes, CDs and DVDs.  Have a look around your home to see how much you think your belongings are worth.  Could you afford to replace them if they were stolen or damaged?  

I paid for insurance when I bought my television / washing machine etc. from the shop.  What’s the difference?

Cover bought at the same time as the goods is usually called an ‘extended warranty’.  It offers protection over and above a normal warranty (i.e. 12 months) in the event of the goods breaking down.  Unlike home contents insurance, extended warranties will not cover damage resulting from water or fire, or cover the costs of replacing a stolen item.  

Will belongings be covered outside of my home (i.e. taking a camera on holiday or a bike into town)?

The type of cover available when your belongings are not inside the home can vary.  It is important to check your policy on this point, but in many cases you will need to extend your cover for extra protection when taking cameras, bikes or other possessions outside of your home.  

Why doesn't the landlord cover my contents?

Your landlord is responsible for the building you live in and needs insurance to cover any loss or damage to the structure and fittings of your home. This includes the kitchen units and bathroom suite - in other words, the things that can't be removed.  A landlord does not usually take responsibility for the personal property of a tenant.  

What’s the difference between buildings and contents insurance?

Contents insurance will cover your personal belongings – those things that you might take with you when moving home, whereas buildings insurance protects things that can’t be removed – the building itself, plus fixtures and fittings.  

Does my landlord offer tenant contents insurance?

Many landlords do offer contents insurance policies to their tenants, but not all do at the moment.  Get in touch with your landlord direct to check availability in your area.  

Do I have to buy home contents insurance?

No.  Home contents insurance is optional.  Nobody, other than yourself and your family, is at risk of loss should a burglar take a fancy to your things, or should a cigarette send your belongings up in smoke.  However, if you value your belongings, for your own peace of mind you should consider insuring against damage and theft.  

My landlord doesn’t offer a tenants contents insurance scheme

If your landlord doesn’t offer a tenants contents insurance scheme, don’t worry.  You can still find affordable home contents insurance, but you should shop around to make sure you get the best deal.  

Insurance brokers can help you find a suitable product.  The British Insurance Brokers Association (BIBA) can you put you in touch with a local broker, who won’t charge you a fee for their service.  Contact BBIBA online or call 0870 950 1790.  

You might also want to contact your landlord to ask whether he might consider offering a tenants contents insurance scheme.