Cheap home insurance

How to get cheap home insurance
How best to compare 100+ home insurance quotes

Home insurance premiums have risen once more, with the average annual cost reaching £400, as reported by the Association of British Insurers. The trend shows no indication of slowing down. Even if your policy isn’t due for renewal, it’s wise for everyone to check now if they can save £100s by securing a favorable rate and shielding themselves against potential future increases for the upcoming year. This guide is designed to assist you in finding the most affordable and optimal home insurance available.

1-min read on finding cheap home insurance

You can save hundreds of pounds by switching your home insurance, as many people have. If you’re familiar with the process, here’s a quick way to find a budget-friendly policy. For additional assistance, check out our comprehensive guide below:

1. NEVER auto-renew – instead get quotes from comparison sites. Comparison websites don’t all search the same insurers or offer the same prices, so it’s a good idea to explore multiple options if you have the time. We recommend checking out Compare The Market*, MoneySupermarket*, and Confused.com* in that order. Here’s how we rate them.

2. Compare against a quote from Direct Line. Biggie Direct Line might not be listed on comparison websites, but it can offer competitive rates, so it’s often a good idea to look into it directly.

3. Then see if cashback sites can beat the quotes you got above. Topcashback* offers a £35 reward when you make a purchase through its comparison platform, while Quidco* provides £34. However, it’s also a good idea to see if you can secure a better deal by visiting the insurer directly through the regular Topcashback* and Quidco* websites.

4. How much you cover makes a difference. Utilize a rebuilding cost calculator to determine the appropriate amount of insurance for your building coverage, and employ a contents calculator to ensure you have adequate protection for your belongings.

* We analyse a large range of insurance quotes given by Compare The Market, Confused.com and MoneySupermarket, then do the following:

1. Check how many times each comparison site returned the cheapest or within £5 of the cheapest quote.
2. The comparison site giving the greatest number of cheapest quotes, or within £5 of the cheapest, is ranked first.
3. We then analyse the comparison site ranked first with the two remaining sites. We’ll rank the two that together give the biggest number of cheapest quotes as first and second to try, to boost your chances of a cheap quote at speed.

What is home insurance?

Home insurance offers protection in the event of significant incidents affecting your residence, such as fires, theft, or storm-related damage.

The type of coverage you require will depend on your specific situation. For instance, buildings insurance typically applies to freehold homeowners, whereas it is generally the responsibility of the management company or landlord for leaseholders—verify your lease agreement if uncertain.

As for contents insurance, it is advisable for everyone as it covers loss or damage to your personal possessions.

In essence, home insurance can be categorized into three primary types:

• Buildings insurance. This covers the structure of your home and permanent fixtures and fittings.
• Contents insurance. If you were to turn your home upside down, everything that falls out would usually be protected. It’s important for everyone to think about this, but if you’re renting, check out our specialized guide on Tenants’ contents insurance.
• Combined buildings and contents. This policy addresses both scenarios mentioned and is a popular option for those who own their home’s freehold, often due to its lower cost. Additionally, it simplifies the claims process by involving just one insurer.

What does home insurance cover?

It can differ from policy to policy, so always check yours carefully, but generally here’s what  home insurance will and won’t cover:

What home insurance does and doesn’t cover you for

What you ARE usually covered for	What you’re NOT usually covered for
Repair from damage. Eg, from escaping water (such as a burst pipe), falling trees, fire, flooding, storms, subsidence and vandalism.	Damage due to normal wear and tear. For example, a carpet with scuff marks or fading.
Replacement of stolen items. Typically covered by contents element, protecting the possessions in your home, garage and shed.	Accidental damage. Though you can sometimes pay more to cover this – see add-ons below.
Legal liability. A contents policy usually covers you if a visitor is seriously injured and you’re at fault, a buildings policy covers you if the structure injures a pass-by or, or damages a neighbour’s property.	Intentional damage. You won’t be covered for deliberate acts of damage by you, anyone else living in your home or guests.
Alternative accommodation. If you can’t stay at your home following a fire or flood. The cost of a hotel or B&B is usually covered.	If you’re away from your home for 30+ days a year. See leaving your home unoccupied for more info.
Replacement keys and locks. If damaged, or your keys go missing.	Business-related accidents or damage. If you run a business from home.
Replacement of spoiled food. If your freezer breaks down.	High-value items. Unless you’ve specifically told the insurer about them.

 

Cheap home insurance tricks

Want cheap home insurance? Our tips and tricks can help you get it.

1 – Never auto-renew – always compare quotes

Avoid auto-renewal to save on insurance costs. Although insurers are no longer allowed to charge existing customers more than new ones, switching providers can still offer significant savings.

As of January 1, 2022, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) implemented new regulations that prevent home and car insurers from charging renewal prices that exceed those for new policies with the same company. This change aimed to eliminate ‘price-walking’ or the ‘loyalty premium,’ a practice where insurers attracted new customers with low rates and then increased renewal prices annually, regardless of changes in circumstances, risk, or property.

However, this doesn’t guarantee that your renewal quote is the best available. Insurers set different rates, so comparing quotes is essential to finding the best deal. Additionally, insurers may offer varying prices through different channels, such as discounting certain comparison websites (while maintaining the same renewal rates for customers who originally came through those sites). To ensure you’re getting the best rate, check multiple comparison websites.

2 – Quotes three weeks ahead are cheapest

The most cost-effective way to obtain home insurance quotes is to start the process approximately 21 days before your policy’s start date.

Typically, your insurer will issue a renewal notice about 28 days before your current policy expires. If you do nothing, it will generally renew automatically at the new rate, so it’s wise to mark your renewal date on your calendar to ensure you take necessary action.

The ideal time to seek quotes is 21 days before your renewal date, as insurance rates tend to rise as the start date approaches.

An analysis of over three million quotes from major comparison sites—Compare The Market, Confused.com, Gocompare, and MoneySupermarket—shows that purchasing your home insurance three weeks prior to the desired start date can lead to savings of over 20%, compared to waiting until the last minute.

For the best rates, aim to purchase your policy between 17 and 30 days before the start date, with 21 days being the optimal time.

3 – You can switch, even if not at renewal

Switching isn’t reserved solely for renewal periods—though you should consider potential cancellation fees.

A common misconception is that switching is only possible when your policy renews. In reality, you can make a switch at any time. This becomes particularly relevant if prices are increasing or if you recently auto-renewed without checking for more affordable options. If you’re contemplating a mid-policy switch, keep these factors in mind:

• If you decide to cancel your policy partway through its term and have already paid in advance, you will generally receive a pro-rata refund for the remaining period of the year, assuming you haven’t made any claims. For those who pay monthly, simply stop payments to your current insurer and begin payments to the new one.
• Typically, a cancellation fee of around £35 will apply (confirm the exact amount with your insurer), so you should ensure that the financial benefits of switching exceed this cost. The greater the time remaining on your policy, the more advantageous it may be to switch.
• Keep in mind that if you switch insurers, you won’t accumulate the current year’s no-claims discount. Therefore, you’ll need to achieve significant savings to make the switch worthwhile.

If switching mid-policy is financially advantageous for you, inform your current insurer of your intention to cancel. Inquire whether there is a notice period, as this will determine when you should initiate the new policy. Purchase the new policy and ensure that it begins the day following the expiration of the old one to avoid any lapse in coverage.

4 – Use a calculator to insure the right amount

To ensure you have the correct level of insurance coverage, use free online calculators to avoid both over- and under-insuring.

To determine what each insurance policy covers, think of it this way: if you were to turn your home upside down, everything that falls out would be considered contents, while what stays in place is typically the building. Below, we provide guidance on how to accurately estimate the right insurance amounts.

Buildings Insurance – Focus on Rebuild Value, Not Resale Value

Many homeowners mistakenly insure their property based on its market value—the price it could fetch on the market—rather than its rebuild value, which is the expense of reconstructing the property if it were destroyed. To accurately determine the rebuild value, consider the local costs of materials, labor, and architectural services. Additionally, a comprehensive buildings insurance policy should include coverage for alternative accommodation while your home is being rebuilt or if it’s rendered uninhabitable.

To determine the rebuild value, the most dependable method is to commission a survey. However, this approach can be costly unless you’re already planning one, such as when purchasing a new home. Alternatively, you can use the Association of British Insurers’ calculator, which is faster but less precise.

For additional details, refer to our guide on Calculating Rebuild Costs.

Contents Insurance – The Risks of Underinsuring

Setting the right value for your contents is crucial, as it can impact both your coverage level and any potential claims. Most insurance providers offer coverage on a proportional basis, which can seem complex. Here’s how it works: If your possessions are worth £20,000 but you insure them for only £10,000, you’re considered to be 50% covered. Therefore, if you file a claim for £5,000, you’ll only receive £2,500.

To avoid this issue, calculate the value of everything you own, including smaller items like clothing, on a ‘new for old’ basis. For assistance, you can use calculators from Direct Line or the AA.

It’s also worth considering the following:

• Expensive items typically require separate listing. Many insurance policies demand that high-value items, like premium laptops and jewelry (including engagement rings), be listed individually to ensure coverage. Always review your policy thoroughly to understand what is included, and be sure to notify your insurer if you acquire high-cost items later on. Keep receipts as evidence of purchase, as insurers often require them before processing claims.
• High-value items like antiques or paintings should be appraised by professionals. For those with numerous valuable possessions, consider specialist insurers like Hiscox or John Lewis Specialist Home Insurance.
• Items like gifts that are kept at home for a short period are often automatically covered by your home insurance. During December, a time when many celebrate holidays, many insurers boost your contents coverage automatically, sometimes extending into January without additional cost. Additionally, some insurers offer increased coverage for other special events, like weddings. Generally, coverage for individual items is between £1,000 and £2,000, but it’s important to review your policy details to understand the exact coverage and timing.

5 – Better locks and security can bag you cheaper policies

Installing a high-quality lock on your doors can reduce your contents insurance premium. The more secure your lock, the safer your home, which can lead to lower insurance costs.

When we looked at quotes, switching from a basic latch to a ‘five-lever mortise deadlock’—a lock favored by insurers—reduced our annual premium by £50 with the same provider. In some cases, this means the cost of the new lock could be offset by the savings on insurance.

Insurers will inquire about the type of lock you have, so providing incorrect information could invalidate your coverage.

Simply claiming you have a lock won’t guarantee a lower premium. If a burglary occurs and you don’t actually have the specified locks or haven’t used them properly, your insurer might refuse to pay out or require a higher excess on your claim.

Most comparison websites feature images to help you choose the right locks while obtaining quotes. Additionally, Gocompare and Confused.com offer detailed guides on the subject.

6 – Check if your car insurer will give you a home insurance discount

Compare the cost of having a single policy that covers both your car and home insurance.

Once you’ve evaluated the cost of separate policies, it’s a good idea to see if bundling them could lead to savings.

Admiral MultiCover* and LV Multi Cover* both provide a combined policy for home and car insurance. Additionally, some insurers offer discounts to existing customers who take out new policies. For instance, Direct Line, Aviva, and Churchill all provide reduced rates on home insurance if you hold another policy with them.

What happens if my home and car insurance policies renew on different dates?

For insurers like Direct Line, Aviva, and Churchill, having separate renewal dates for your car and home insurance policies isn’t an issue. Each policy will have its own renewal date and number, and you’ll receive a discount for each policy you buy, provided you inform the insurer that you are an existing customer.

With Admiral and LV, you’ll receive a total price that incorporates the different start dates of your policies. Your current coverage will remain active until its renewal date, at which point you can cancel it and switch to Admiral or LV. These insurers will provide an ‘annual equivalent price’ that represents what you would pay if both policies were valid for a full year, making it easier for you to compare with other insurance providers.

7 – For the cheapest policies, you’ll usually need to pay annually

A monthly insurance payment plan can be viewed as a high-interest loan, with annual percentage rates (APR) ranging from less than 20% to over 40%.

If possible, settle your premium in full. If that’s not feasible, consider using a credit card with a lower interest rate or, ideally, a 0% credit card for spending, provided you make substantial payments to pay off the balance within a year.

8 – Consider whether add-ons such as accidental damage, mobile phone cover and legal expenses are worth it

After buying a policy, don’t assume it’s comprehensive for all situations. There are usually some limitations unless you’ve opted for extended coverage and additional optional add-ons.

Here’s a summary of typical add-ons to consider, helping you choose which might be beneficial for you.

Common add-ons explained

Accidental damage	Most standard policies usually cover you for limited accidental damage, such as a broken window (on a buildings policy) or a damaged TV (contents). But if you spill paint on your carpet, it’s unlikely to be covered unless you opted to include accidental damage cover. So if you’re particularly clumsy, you should give it some thought – just make sure you check the T&Cs first to see what is covered as standard.   Learn more about home insurance damage cover in our guide.
Personal belongings cover	Confusingly it has many different names, but you’ll tend to find it called one of the following: ‘all risks cover’, ‘unspecified personal possessions’, ‘personal effects’ or ‘personal belongings away from the home’. Most policies DON’T cover contents outside the home as standard, but by paying a bit more you can usually get cover for items such as your bag, purse, wallet, smartphone and tablet. Basically, if it’s designed to be taken out of the home, it’ll usually fall under this extension. When you choose the add-on, you must decide the value of goods you want insured outside the home. Say you wanted cover for a £500 ring, £200 camera, £200 spectacles and £100 headphones; you’d choose a round figure of £1,000 worth of so-called ‘unspecified items’ cover. Though always check the ‘single item’ limit set by the insurer. If any of the individual items you take out of the home exceed this, it will need to be specified.
Mobile phone cover	Most home contents insurance policies will cover handsets that are lost in a burglary or fire. Some policies will also let you pay extra to cover your phone for accidental damage or loss/theft outside the home – usually including when you’re abroad – if it isn’t already covered under the ‘personal belongings’ section. Alternatively, you could buy a standalone mobile phone insurance policy.
Bicycle cover	Like mobile phone insurance, you are usually covered if your bike is stolen from your home. Once it leaves your home, you’ll only get a payout if it is stolen from a public place if it is locked to a fixed street item such as a railing or bike stand. If your cycle is not already covered under the ‘personal belongings’ section, or is too expensive to add, see if specialist bicycle insurance is cheaper for you.
Legal expenses	This can help with legal disputes, and some or all of the following, depending on the policy: – Goods or services you buy or rent – Personal injury – Employment disputes – Property protection, including boundary disputes – Inheritance disputes – Legal defence, because of an incident at work – Clinical negligence A home insurance legal expenses policy is different from a policy you get with your motor vehicle, so don’t expect this to help with a motor claim/accident.
Home emergency	As the name suggests, it tends to cover emergencies – usually if your health’s at risk, or your home’s uninhabitable or at risk from further damage if the problem’s not fixed. For example, this could be if you’ve a burst pipe and can’t turn off the water supply, or your boiler’s broken and it’s zero degrees outside. Broadly, this tends to cover your boiler and central heating, plus also provides help for floods, pest infestation and more. See our Boiler cover guide for full help choosing a policy.
Protected no-claims discount	This usually means you can make a claim and not lose your discount next time you renew (if you stay with your existing insurer). However, do note that protecting your no-claims discount does NOT guarantee your premium won’t go up.

 

Get cheap home insurance quotes

How to find the cheapest home insurance quotes: a step-by-step guide

So now you know the basics of home insurance, here are the steps you need to follow to ensure you find the cheapest price possible.

Step 1: Get quotes from multiple comparison sites

Comparison sites essentially function as insurance marketplaces. Insurers may offer lower prices on these sites than what they charge directly.

This means that not only do various comparison sites feature different insurers, but the same insurer may have varying prices on different sites. To increase your chances of finding the most affordable quote, it’s advisable to use at least two comparison sites, or more if possible.

Below, you’ll find our recommended order of sites to use (see how we determine this order), along with an analysis of any benefits each comparison site provides if you purchase through them. As long as you’re using multiple sites, it’s worth considering those with the most advantageous perks for you.

Order of comparison sites

We analyse a large range of insurance quotes given by Compare The Market, Confused.com and MoneySupermarket, then do the following:

1. Check how many times each comparison site returned the cheapest or within £5 of the cheapest quote.
2. The comparison site giving the greatest number of cheapest quotes, or within £5 of the cheapest, is ranked first.
3. We then analyse the comparison site ranked first with the two remaining sites. We’ll rank the two that together give the biggest number of cheapest quotes as first and second to try, to boost your chances of a cheap quote at speed.

Typical homes – (I have a typical home)

For optimal results, it’s ideal to utilize all three major comparison websites. However, if you’re pressed for time, we’ve ranked them based on which ones typically offer the lowest quotes, giving you the best opportunity to secure the best deal.

Try comparison sites in this order

Site	Official perk info & ExEconomics analysis
Try as many as you can, in this order…
Compare The Market*	Official perk info: Meerkat Movies and Meals. A year’s 2for1s on cinema tickets and meals on Tue/Wed nights. Perk analysis: For those who’d use it and go to the flicks and restaurants, this perk can be worth £100s. However, you can just use our trick to get Meerkat Movies and Meals for £1 for a year, meaning you may want to consider other sites’ perks instead.
MoneySupermarket*	Official perk info: SuperSaveClub and price promise SuperSaveClub: Buy annual home insurance and you can join this club, which gives you a 12-month ‘Free Days Out’ pass. Plus, you’ll get a gift card of up to £15 for each subsequent qualifying product purchase you make through MoneySupermarket. Price promise: If you buy home insurance, then find a cheaper like-for-like policy with the same insurer (either direct or via another comparison site), MoneySupermarket refunds the difference plus a £20 gift card. Perk analysis: The Free Days Out pass gives you one adult entry to places across the UK, so used regularly it could be worth £100s. The £15 gift card on subsequent qualifying products is a bonus, as long as the quote’s competitive. You can use the price promise even if you’re not a member of the SuperSaveClub, though you’ll have to claim it.
Confused.com*	Official perk info: A Greggs hot drink each month and the choice of a… £20 Halfords voucher | £20 Sainsbury’s voucher | £20 Just Eat voucher | Access to Paramount+ for three months. Perk analysis: The highest value is Paramount+, just, at £20.97. Add 12 hot drinks, and the value increases to about £40.
Then, to boost chances of finding a cheap quote further, try…
Gocompare – currently gives £250 ‘free’ excess cover with every purchase.
Quotezone* – another comparison site, it gives access to Rewards+ within 60 days of a policy purchase, which it says offers savings at up to 1,000 retailers.
Direct Line – you won’t find this insurer on any comparison sites, so it’s worth a try.

 

Struggling to find cover? – (I’m struggling to find cover)

Individuals living in flood-prone areas, those experiencing subsidence, or people with homes left vacant for extended periods often face challenges in securing affordable insurance due to their high-risk status. Similarly, individuals with a problematic financial history, including bankruptcy or county court judgments, may also find it difficult.

In such cases, insurance providers like Intelligent Insurance* and Homeprotect* might offer assistance.

For those affected by flooding, the Flood Re initiative provides a helpful tool that lists insurers you can approach.

Another option is to consult with a broker about your specific situation. You can locate a broker through the British Insurance Brokers’ Association website.

Renting or in shared accommodation – (I’m renting or in shared accommodation)

Securing insurance for a room in a shared house or apartment doesn’t have to break the bank. As a renter, your landlord handles the insurance for the building, which means you only need coverage for your belongings.

Our guide to affordable contents insurance for tenants explains why having contents insurance is crucial for renters and provides tips on finding the most suitable policy at the lowest cost. Remember, insurers generally only cover claims if there’s evidence of forced entry, so it’s vital to keep your room locked to protect your possessions.

Will increased security get me better cover?

To reduce the likelihood of your belongings being stolen, you increase your chances of receiving the most competitive quote.

Ensure you have adequate security measures, not just for your private room, but also for the main entry points of your home or apartment. Without an authorized lock, securing theft coverage can be challenging.

Store all your items in a locked room, as anything left in shared spaces is generally not covered by insurance against theft. Note that theft coverage typically requires evidence of violent or forced entry.

Made a claim in the last five years? – (I have made past claims)

Combine the comparison sites in this order…

Comparison websites send your details to various insurers and brokers’ sites to find the lowest prices. However, be cautious as they frequently share your personal information with insurers.

No single comparison site covers the entire market, so using multiple sites one by one is the most effective way to achieve significant savings.

Try comparison sites in this order

Site	Official perk info & ExEconomics analysis
Try as many as you can, in this order…
Compare The Market*	Official perk info: Meerkat Movies and Meals. A year’s 2for1s on cinema tickets and meals on Tue/Wed nights. Perk analysis: For those who’d use it and go to the flicks and restaurants, this perk can be worth £100s. However, you can just use our trick to get Meerkat Movies and Meals for £1 for a year, meaning you may want to consider other sites’ perks instead.
MoneySupermarket*	Official perk info: SuperSaveClub and price promise SuperSaveClub: Buy annual home insurance and you can join this club, which gives you a 12-month ‘Free Days Out’ pass. Plus, you’ll get a gift card of up to £15 for each subsequent qualifying product purchase you make through MoneySupermarket. Price promise: If you buy home insurance, then find a cheaper like-for-like policy with the same insurer (either direct or via another comparison site), MoneySupermarket refunds the difference plus a £20 gift card. Perk analysis: The Free Days Out pass gives you one adult entry to places across the UK, so used regularly it could be worth £100s. The £15 gift card on subsequent qualifying products is a bonus, as long as the quote’s competitive. You can use the price promise even if you’re not a member of the SuperSaveClub, though you’ll have to claim it.
Confused.com*	Official perk info: A Greggs hot drink each month and the choice of a… £20 Halfords voucher | £20 Sainsbury’s voucher | £20 Just Eat voucher | Access to Paramount+ for three months. Perk analysis: The highest value is Paramount+, just, at £20.97. Add 12 hot drinks, and the value increases to about £40.
Then, to boost chances of finding a cheap quote further, try…
Gocompare – currently gives £250 ‘free’ excess cover with every purchase.
Quotezone* – another comparison site, it gives access to Rewards+ within 60 days of a policy purchase, which it says offers savings at up to 1,000 retailers.
Direct Line – you won’t find this insurer on any comparison sites, so it’s worth a try.

 

Step 2: Check deals comparison miss

Here, we highlight exclusive offers not available on comparison websites. While these deals don’t always guarantee the lowest price, they’re definitely worth exploring. Consider the voucher as a discount and see if it surpasses the best quote you’ve found through comparison sites.

Insurer	Deal information
Coverbaloo*	Get a £25 Amazon voucher. New and returning customers who buy a contents-only, buildings-only or combined policy via Coverbaloo site link*, will receive a £25 Amazon voucher. Existing policy holders who bought their original policy via site link can also get the voucher if they renew during the promo period. Voucher will be emailed around 90 days after the policy start date.
Urban Jungle*	Get a £15 Amazon voucher when you ask site. Urban jungle home insurance newbies and returning customers who buy a contents-only, buildings-only or combined policy via this Urban Jungle site link* will be emailed the voucher 30 days after the policy has been in place for six months.

Important: Don’t let the vouchers/cashback/gifts sway you – always make sure the policy meets your needs, and get alternative quotes to compare.

Step 3: See if you can get cashback

If you’re using a cashback site, you might be aware that when you purchase your home insurance through it, the site earns a ‘lead fee’ from the insurer. After receiving this fee, the site typically disburses the cashback to you directly. However, some sites are beginning to donate the cashback to charity instead. (If this is the case, you should be informed, but it’s wise to confirm if you’re unsure.)

This approach can sometimes be more advantageous than using comparison sites. However, it’s important to view the cashback as a bonus rather than a certainty, as there are instances where the transaction might not be tracked or the cashback might not be issued. Here are two options to consider…

• Route 1: Use cashback site comparisons. MoneySupermarket.com’s comparison tool is available on Quidco*, while a similar version from Confused.com can be found on Topcashback*. Purchasing a policy through these platforms will earn you £34 and £35, respectively. Note that these are rebranded versions of the original comparison tools, so you won’t receive the typical perks associated with Confused.com or MoneySupermarket. Additionally, the quotes you get might differ from those on the comparison site, so it’s important to compare and choose the most cost-effective option for yourself.
• Route 2: Find your cheapest insurer then go via a cashback site. After identifying your most affordable insurance provider—always make that your first step—consider exploring potential cashback offers available through direct access via platforms like Quidco* and Topcashback*.

Ensure that the price offered through these cashback sites matches the rates you previously discovered in your comparisons. If the price is higher, check if the cashback amount compensates for the increase. If it doesn’t, stick with the quotes you obtained earlier.

For detailed information on how these cashback sites function, refer to our comprehensive Top Cashback Sites guide.

Step 4: Haggle with your existing insurer

After securing the lowest quote, consider negotiating a larger discount with your current insurer. While haggling is optional—especially if you’re considering switching providers—it’s certainly beneficial if you plan to renew with your current insurer.

Once you’ve obtained the most competitive rate, reach out to your insurer by phone or through their online chat to inquire if they can offer a better or matching rate. Often, a straightforward request will suffice. If you encounter difficulties, consult our guide on negotiating car and home insurance for expert advice.

Step 5: Check your policy details carefully

Before making a purchase, thoroughly review the policy.

After identifying the most affordable quotes, follow up with these additional crucial steps…

• Double-check the quotes. Visit the provider’s website to read the full quote, as some comparison platforms may make certain assumptions to expedite the search process.
• Examine the policy’s coverage. Assess its suitability first. While you’re reviewing it, consider experimenting with the policy details to see if you can reduce the price. Examine the excess and explore if any adjustments might lower the cost.
• Check the firm you’re buying from is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Typically, you shouldn’t encounter issues when purchasing through the methods mentioned earlier. The benefit of this approach is that if your claim is unjustly denied, you have the right to escalate your complaint to the Financial Ombudsman at no cost, should the insurer fail to address it. More details on this are provided in the following section.

Who needs home insurance?

The kind of home insurance that’s right for you varies based on your specific circumstances, such as whether you’re renting or owning a property. Here’s a breakdown of the insurance requirements for different situations.

• Homeowners. As a homeowner, you are accountable for every part of your property, including both the structure and its contents. To protect yourself, it’s important to have both buildings and contents insurance. While you can purchase these policies individually, opting for a combined policy is often more cost-effective.
• Renters. You might want to consider contents insurance, as the homeowner will typically handle the coverage for the property itself. It could be more cost-effective to share a policy with housemates rather than purchasing one individually. However, it might be more advantageous to opt for coverage specifically suited to your needs. For more details, take a look at our comprehensive guide on contents insurance for tenants.
• Landlords. As a property owner, it’s often essential to opt for specialized landlord insurance rather than regular home insurance. This is due to the distinct risks and needs that come with renting out property, which differ from those of typical homeowners. Explore our Landlord Insurance Guide for more detailed information.
• Short-term lettings. Are you renting out your property privately or through platforms like Airbnb? To safeguard against potential claims from guests, you’ll need specialized insurance coverage. Additionally, it’s important to maintain standard home insurance for protection against issues unrelated to guest stays.
• Students. You might consider getting contents insurance for valuable items you own. However, it’s worth verifying whether your parents’ contents insurance already covers you before making a purchase.
• Holiday homeowners. Standard home insurance doesn’t cover properties left vacant for extended periods, such as holiday homes, due to the increased risks. Therefore, it’s essential to obtain a specific holiday home insurance policy.

How to complain about your insurance provider

The insurance sector often struggles with a less-than-stellar reputation for customer service. While one provider might be satisfactory for some, others may find the experience to be extremely frustrating.

Frequent issues involve delays or denials in claim payments, unjustified fees, or hidden exclusions buried in the fine print. It’s a good idea to first reach out to your insurance provider directly, but if that doesn’t resolve the issue, you can utilize the free complaints tool Resolver.

This tool assists you in handling your complaint, and if the company fails to address it properly, Resolver also facilitates escalation to the free Financial Ombudsman Service.

Home insurance FAQs

Q – Do I need to tell my home insurer if I’m working from home?

A – Typically, you don’t need to notify your insurer if your work involves tasks like using a laptop or making phone calls.

However, if you have clients or visitors coming to your home for business purposes, or if you’re storing inventory at home (such as in a mail order business), these situations won’t be covered by your standard policy. In these cases, you should inquire whether you can add coverage for visitors or inventory by paying an additional premium or consider extending your existing business insurance.

Q – How do I make a change to my policy, and is there a fee?

A – The ability to make changes to your policy depends on your insurance provider. Some insurers, like Admiral, Axa, and Direct Line, allow you to adjust your policy online, whereas others, such as Age Co, Hastings Direct, and LV, do not offer this option.

Typically, modifying your policy, such as removing an add-on or increasing your contents cover, incurs a fee. This charge, which varies by insurer, generally ranges from £10 to £50. In most cases, making changes online is less expensive than doing so over the phone.

Q – Can I lock in a price to buy at a later date?

A – Several insurers offer to lock in your quote for a period of 90 days. This means that if you obtain a quote one, two, or three months before your policy renewal, you’ll secure that price in case rates increase later on.

Companies like Aviva, Churchill, and Privilege let you purchase a policy up to 90 days in advance. In contrast, John Lewis Insurance will maintain quotes for up to 60 days.

Once the price is secured, it remains unchanged provided your details stay the same. However, you are free to switch to a different policy if you find a more affordable option.

Q – Does being unemployed affect my home insurance cover?

A – If you’re currently unemployed, you might experience an increase in insurance costs if you report your jobless status. However, this increase doesn’t affect homemakers (including housewives or househusbands). If you fit this description, make sure to state it to prevent a rise in your insurance expenses.

Only identify yourself as a homemaker if you are truly not looking for employment or are not receiving any benefits that require job search efforts. Misrepresenting your status would be considered fraudulent.

Q – I’m going away on holiday, am I still covered?

A – When you leave your home unoccupied, your insurance coverage might be limited or even void.

Most insurance policies set a cap on the number of days you can leave your home unattended and still be covered, typically around 30 days. An empty home for extended periods is more vulnerable to burglary, and any damage might go unnoticed for weeks, increasing claim costs.

During colder seasons, insurers often reduce this window to as few as five days unless you keep the heating on at a steady temperature or drain the water heating system (which can be quite a task). This precaution helps prevent burst pipes and the resulting damage.

For instance, with Admiral, if you’re away for five days or more between November and March, you must either keep your home heated to 12°C continuously or turn off the water supply and drain the system to remain fully covered.

Neglecting to maintain the heating could result in claims being rejected, potentially costing you thousands of pounds.

While some insurers include these conditions in their terms and conditions, others, like Aviva and Direct Line, do not. It’s best to check with your insurer to understand their specific requirements. If you’re uncertain, a quick call to your provider can clarify the details.

Q – I’m renting out my old home, do I need a new policy?

A – An increasing number of individuals are becoming accidental landlords—such as those who move into a partner’s property and rent out their former residence, or those who inherit a secondary property and choose to rent it out rather than sell it.

If you fail to inform your insurer (and your lender, if applicable), any claims on your home insurance could be denied because tenants now occupy the property.

Typically, you can contact your current insurer to convert your standard home insurance policy into a basic landlord policy.

However, this often comes with a higher premium due to the increased risk, and your new policy may lack essential landlord-specific features such as loss-of-rent coverage or public liability insurance.

For better coverage, consider seeking out a dedicated landlord insurance policy from another provider that includes both basic contents and buildings protection, as well as additional landlord-specific benefits. To find the best deal, it’s advisable to compare landlord insurance options.

Q – Is it possible to insure a home of non-standard construction, such as having a thatched roof?

A – Do you have a thatched roof or walls constructed from wattle and daub, or wychert? For homes built with non-standard materials, finding insurance can be both challenging and costly.

If the comparison websites don’t offer many options, Intelligent Insurance* might be worth considering. They can also offer coverage if your property remains vacant for over 30 or 60 consecutive days. Alternatively, you could consult a broker who specializes in your specific situation—search for one on the British Insurance Brokers’ Association website.

Q – My child’s at university, does my policy cover them too?

A – If your child is studying and living away from home, they might be automatically protected against theft or loss under your home insurance policy’s ‘temporarily removed from the home’ clause.

Many home insurance policies include this coverage (though it’s worth verifying your specific policy), provided that your home remains your child’s main and permanent address (meaning they will return to your home when not studying). This coverage typically applies only while their belongings are in their accommodation or back at your home.

For coverage of items like mobile phones, laptops, or other personal items your child usually takes with them, you may want to add an ‘all risks’ or ‘unspecified personal possessions’ section to your policy. This addition will cover your child’s belongings while they’re away from home, though it usually involves an extra cost.

Alternatively, if you prefer your child to have their own coverage, you might consider looking into our Contents Insurance for Tenants guide.

Q – How will the excess affect my premium?

A – Insurance policies typically include both a mandatory and an optional excess, if you choose to add one.

A mandatory excess is straightforward. It represents the amount you’ll need to contribute if you file a claim. For instance, if your TV is stolen and you claim £500 with a typical mandatory excess of £50, you would receive £450.

If you also have a £50 voluntary excess alongside the mandatory one, you would only receive £400.

The total excess amount is specified when you purchase the policy. Opting for a higher voluntary excess can often reduce your premium, but this means the insurer will pay out less in the event of a claim.

When deciding on your excess, consider your financial situation carefully. If you can’t afford to cover a large portion of the costs, avoid setting a high voluntary excess, as you’ll be responsible for paying both the voluntary and the mandatory excess.

If you’re purchasing both buildings and contents insurance and choose a combined policy, review the details thoroughly. Some insurers apply separate excesses for each part of the policy, which could mean a double deduction if a single event, such as a flood, affects both your home’s structure and its contents.

The Co-op, Hastings, and Tesco might all impose two separate excesses on combined policies.

Q – What happens if I need to make a claim?

A – To ensure a smooth claims process, contact your insurance provider immediately after discovering any damage or theft. As mentioned previously, when you file a claim, you may be required to cover a portion of the repair or replacement costs, known as the ‘excess.’ Be sure to review your policy for complete details.

You will need to provide information about the circumstances of the loss or damage, along with any supporting evidence. Take photographs or video footage of the damage to your home, belongings, or vehicle, as this can serve as proof.

If your possessions have been significantly damaged or stolen, having photographs of you with the item in question before the incident, or pictures with friends or family holding the item, can help establish ownership. Additionally, receipts, credit card statements, or bank statements can serve as evidence.

For detailed guidance on filing a home insurance claim, refer to our step-by-step Making a Home Insurance Claim guide.

Q – Does my credit score affect my home insurance policy?

A – Yes. Your credit score can influence the expense of your home insurance policy. Individuals with lower credit scores often face higher premiums because insurers view them as more likely to miss payments or cancel policies. Hence, a higher credit score generally results in lower home insurance costs.

If your credit score isn’t great, don’t worry—there are many strategies to improve it, which we detail in our comprehensive guide.

In addition to affecting the cost of your policy, a very low credit score might impact your ability to secure coverage from certain insurers. However, many other insurers may not weigh your credit score as heavily when assessing your eligibility.

For additional information, check out “Will insurance quotes from a comparison site affect my credit score?”

Q – Are valuables only covered inside the home with home insurance?

A – Typically, a home insurance policy covers loss or damage to valuables within the home. However, it’s wise to review your policy to confirm this coverage.

If your valuables are not insured when outside the home, many insurers provide additional options, often referred to as personal belongings insurance, to extend coverage to such items.

Q – How do I estimate the rebuild cost of my house?

A – When getting a home buildings insurance quote, you’ll be asked for your home’s rebuild value. This is how much it would cost to repair your home should it be completely destroyed, not how much it’s worth. Although the insurer will probably provide an estimate for you, it’s a good idea to check this to make sure you get the right level of cover.

To do so, you either need to:

• Pay for a home survey  – this is the most comprehensive but expensive option.
• Use the free Association of British Insurers calculator.

For a deeper dive into these choices and additional details, refer to our guide on calculating rebuild costs.