Content insurance for tenants

Cheap contents insurance
How best to compare contents insurance for tenants and renters

Nearly half of renters lack contents insurance. However, in the event of a burglary, flood, or fire, your landlord’s insurance typically only covers the structure, not your personal belongings. This means you’d be responsible for replacing any lost or damaged items. This guide is designed to help you find an affordable policy that fits your needs.

Do you own your home? 

See Cheap home insurance for combined buildings and contents cover.

What is contents insurance?

Home contents insurance protects your personal belongings, regardless of whether you’re a homeowner or renting. It can sometimes be tricky to determine exactly what’s included, but typically, home contents insurance covers items that would fall if your house were turned upside down—such as clothing, furniture, kitchenware, and electronics. It may also extend to items you carry with you when you leave the house.

Keep in mind that this differs from home buildings insurance, which covers the actual structure of your home and fixed features, like doors, built-in fixtures, and plumbing (such as baths, sinks, toilets, and showers). If you’re renting, it’s usually your landlord’s responsibility to have buildings insurance.

What does contents insurance cover?

The contents portion of your insurance safeguards you in case any belongings in your home or room are stolen or damaged. A good contents insurance plan typically covers:

• Damage to your contents caused by storms, flooding, earthquakes, fire, lightning, explosions, theft, riots and vandalism.
• The cost of spoiled food if your freezer breaks down.
• The replacement of cash stolen from your home.
• Legal liability protection if a visitor to your home is injured and it’s deemed to be your fault.

There are restrictions on the amount you can claim, so if you’re worried about premium frozen goods or stashing money under your bed, review your policy thoroughly.

What ISN’T covered by contents insurance?

Here are some situations where you might assume contents insurance would apply, but in reality, it doesn’t. The most common exclusions are:

• Damage due to wear and tear.
• If your home is unoccupied for more than 30 consecutive days (see unoccupied while away for more).
• Accidental damage (see accidental damage).
• Some burglaries, for example, if there’s no sign of forced entry, insurers may turn down a claim.
• High-value items (for example cycles, jewellery, gadgets) – you may need to pay extra to insure these separately.
• Items you take out of the home – you may need to pay extra to cover these.
• Home-based businesses – ‘office’ work is often covered, but if you have visitors or bring stock home, you’ll need separate cover.
• Acts of terrorism.

Eight contents insurance need-to-knows

Here are our top tips to help you get a policy that’s right for you.

1 – If you, your partner or family rent the entire home, simply buy standard contents insurance

To clarify, tenants’ contents insurance is not a unique type of policy compared to what homeowners would use (though homeowners typically bundle their buildings and contents insurance together).

If you’re a family renting a full house or apartment – and with soaring property prices, many families have no alternative but to rent – selecting a contents-only insurance policy is usually quite simple. Just follow the steps we’ve outlined below.

2 – If in a shared home, you may need to club together with housemates to get cover, or get a lock on your door if you’re going solo

If you live in a shared flat, there are generally two options for insurance:

1. You and your housemates can insure the entire flat (or house), or
2. You can choose to insure just your own room within the flat or house.

However, not all insurance companies are willing to cover you if you’re renting just a single room in a shared flat or house, or if you’re part of a non-family group taking out a joint policy to cover the entire property. As a result, you may find fewer insurers offering quotes.

The reason for this is that sharing a rented home with people who aren’t family tends to increase the likelihood of damage, theft, or missing items, largely due to the higher number of individuals coming and going. With the increased risk comes higher insurance premiums.

If you’re considering taking out an insurance policy for the entire flat-share, here are some important things to note:

When renting a room in a shared house with either friends or strangers, being listed on a shared insurance policy can have some downsides due to a concept known as ‘association.’

Simply put, if one of your housemates files a claim, it could impact the premiums for everyone when it’s time to renew the policy. Additionally, if you later move out, you might be required to disclose any claims made on that joint policy for up to five years.

If you choose room-only insurance, keep two important things in mind:

• Theft coverage requires that your room has a lock, and the door must be secured whenever you’re away. Additionally, coverage will only apply if there is clear evidence of forced entry into your room.
• If your possessions are left in shared spaces, don’t count on them being covered unless someone forces their way into the property.

3 – Don’t underestimate what your contents are worth, otherwise your claim may not be paid in full

To determine the coverage you need, calculate the total value of everything you own, even small items like clothing, based on their replacement cost. (Refer to our FAQ on ‘new for old’ policies for further details.)

When it comes to contents insurance, undervaluing your belongings can result in receiving less than their true worth during a claim. Here’s an example to clarify…

If you informed your insurer that your possessions are valued at £10,000 but they’re actually worth £20,000, assuming you wouldn’t need to claim everything at once, this could lead to a problem.

In the event of a burglary where you need to claim £5,000 worth of items, the insurer might only pay £2,500 if they determine that you’ve underinsured the full value of your contents.

4 – Students – check if you’re already covered on your parents’ contents policy

As a student, you might find that you’re automatically covered against theft or loss if your parents have home insurance. This protection typically falls under the ‘temporarily removed from the home’ clause.

This coverage is valid only for your belongings while they’re in your living space, provided that your parents’ home remains your main and permanent address. Many insurance policies include this feature, so it’s a good idea to confirm.

If you require coverage for items like laptops or mobile phones, or for belongings you usually carry with you, your parents might consider adding an ‘all risks’ or ‘unspecified personal possessions’ section to their policy. This enhancement ensures your items are protected even when they’re away from your rented accommodation.

If your parents lack this coverage or if it doesn’t extend to you, take a look at our information on student contents insurance.

5 – Contents insurance doesn’t usually cover accidental damage, or belongings outside the home – but it can be worth paying extra for this cover

Contents insurance policies typically include a level of accidental damage coverage. While electrical items may be protected, common mishaps like spilling red wine on your carpet are unlikely to be included in standard coverage.

Many insurers provide the option to purchase additional coverage for a higher premium. If you tend to be accident-prone, it’s wise to consider this. Be sure to read the terms and conditions closely to understand what is and isn’t included in your standard policy.

Furthermore, most contents policies do not cover items outside your home by default. However, you can enhance your coverage with an ‘all risks’ or ‘personal possessions’ add-on, which safeguards your belongings when you’re away from home.

This add-on typically incurs an extra cost but allows for coverage of items like your handbag, smartphone, or bicycle both domestically and internationally. Generally, if an item is intended for use outside the home, it can be included in this extension.

Always review your policy thoroughly, as there may be limitations on coverage and certain items may need to be explicitly listed in your documents. For high-value items like bicycles worth £1,000 or more, a specialized bicycle insurance policy might be more suitable. Similarly, if you frequently carry valuable gadgets, such as laptops, headphones, and smartwatches, considering gadget insurance could be beneficial.

6 – Own high-value items, for example, a bike or gaming PC? Tell your insurer about them before taking out cover

Insurance providers typically request an estimated value for all your belongings, but high-value items, usually between £1,000 and £2,000, often need to be listed separately to receive coverage under many policies.

Items valued below £1,000 might not always be included, particularly mobile phones, tablets, and bicycles. Many insurers require these items to be explicitly mentioned in the policy, regardless of their price.

After purchasing an expensive item, it’s essential to review your policy to confirm it’s included. If you’re not at the time of renewal, you should contact your insurer to inform them, though be aware that there may be an additional charge for adding these new items.

It’s also crucial to keep and protect receipts for valuable possessions like jewelry, high-end cameras, and top-tier televisions. Insurers typically require proof of purchase before processing claims, which can include receipts, photographs, valuation certificates (for jewelry or antiques), or bank statements. This requirement applies when adding such items to an “all risks” or “personal possessions” extension of your contents insurance.

7 – Working from home? You only need to tell your insurer if you’ve brought stock home or have business visitors

In most situations, you don’t have to inform your insurer about working from home, especially if your work involves clerical tasks like using a laptop and making phone calls.

However, if you operate a home-based business, visitors to your residence or any inventory stored there will not be insured. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s best to contact your insurer. You may need to pay an additional premium to cover visitors or stock, or you might need a separate business insurance policy.

8 – Beware paying for insurance monthly – you’re really getting a costly loan

Monthly payment plans for insurance are essentially loans with high interest rates.

When you first purchase a policy, it’s advisable to pay the entire amount upfront. However, many individuals may not have the financial means to do so. If this applies to you, consider applying for a 0% interest credit card for your purchases.

You can use this card to pay for your insurance, but make sure your monthly payments are sufficient to pay off the balance within a year, ahead of your next policy renewal.

In an ideal situation, aim to save money while also paying off the credit card debt, allowing you to cover the full cost of your insurance when it’s time to renew.

How to find the cheapest contents insurance

Finding the most affordable coverage is largely influenced by your living situation. For instance, individuals residing with family may have different options compared to those sharing a home with unfamiliar flatmates or housemates. Choose the tab that best reflects your circumstances.

I live on my own, or with a partner/family

Step 1: Use price comparison sites

Since you’re sharing your home with your spouse, partner, or close family members, using a comparison site is an excellent first step for obtaining quotes. This method allows you to swiftly and conveniently explore policies, giving you a reliable reference for pricing.

While it’s ideal to utilize all three comparison sites, we’ve prioritized them based on which ones typically offer the lowest quotes (check out our criteria for ranking). This way, you have the best opportunity to secure a great deal.

Try comparison sites in this order

Step 2: Check deals not on comparison sites

Here are some exclusive offers that aren’t available on comparison websites. While they may not always be the best option, they’re definitely worth exploring. Remember to consider the voucher as a discount and see if the resulting price outshines your best quote from comparison sites.

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: Struggling to get cheap cover? Go to a broker

If you’re facing challenges in securing insurance coverage, consulting a broker is a wise step. An insurance broker specializes in the field and has a deep understanding of the market, enabling them to provide tailored advice for your specific coverage requirements.

Individuals with complicated financial histories—like bankruptcy or county court judgments—often encounter difficulties in obtaining affordable insurance, as they are deemed higher risk.

Additionally, residents in flood-prone or subsidence-affected areas, or those with properties that remain vacant for extended periods, may also find it hard to secure coverage.

In these situations, you can search on the British Insurance Brokers’ Association website (or phone 0370 950 1790) for help with your individual circumstances. It will list brokers in your area who may be able to help.

You might also consider Home Protect* and Intelligent Insurance*. These specialized providers collaborate with various insurance companies to help individuals who have difficulty obtaining coverage.

Step 4: Check the policy carefully before buying

Always verify the terms of the policy. After locating the most affordable quote that meets your needs and budget, whether through comparison sites or directly, ensure you complete two essential checks:

• Double-check the quote. Visit the insurance provider’s official website to verify that the policy meets your needs. Some comparison websites may make assumptions to expedite the search process, which could not align with your specific situation.
• Examine the policy’s cover to try to shave some off the price. When evaluating suitability, it’s beneficial to experiment with the policy details to potentially lower the price further. For instance, consider the excess amount and explore whether an affordable adjustment in this area can help reduce the overall cost.

Step 5: See if you can get cashback on your cheapest quote

If you utilize cashback websites, you’re likely aware that they earn a ‘lead fee’ for directing you to an insurer. After receiving this payment from the insurer, they pass some of it on to you.

This can sometimes provide a better deal than using the comparison sites mentioned earlier. However, make sure your quote doesn’t exceed those available through comparison sites. It’s also wise to view cashback as a potential bonus rather than a certainty, as there are occasions when it may not track or be paid out. There are two approaches you can explore…

– Route a) Use cashback site comparisons. You can find a variant of Confused.com’s comparison on Topcashback*, as well as a MoneySupermarket option on Quidco*. If you purchase a policy through these sites, you’ll receive cashback of £35 and £34, respectively. However, note that these are rebranded versions, so you won’t receive the typical perks associated with Confused or MoneySupermarket. It’s also important to monitor the quotes you receive, as the prices may differ from those shown in the original comparisons.

To find the best deal, simply review the quotes you receive. Subtract £35 from the lowest offer on Topcashback and £34 from the lowest on Quidco, then compare the results to determine which option is the most affordable for you.

– Route b) Find your cheapest insurer then go via cashback site. Once you identify your most affordable insurance provider, consider exploring the cashback options available through Quidco* and Topcashback*.

However, proceed with caution: don’t let the allure of cashback dictate your choice. Prioritize selecting the right insurer before seeking cashback opportunities. Avoid choosing an insurer solely based on the highest cashback offer.

Additionally, verify that the prices you’re seeing align with the comparisons you’ve previously conducted. If you find a higher price, determine whether the cashback can compensate for the increase. If it doesn’t, stick with your original quotes.

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

I need room-only cover in a home-share

Step 1: Use price comparison sites

Comparison websites quickly send your information to insurers and brokers to help you find the lowest prices. However, it’s important to note that they frequently share your personal details with these insurers.

We have examined various comparison sites to determine which ones are most likely to provide the best quotes for room-only coverage (check our method for ranking them). Since they don’t all evaluate the same providers, it’s a good idea to use multiple sites together.

Before you start… it’s important to note that all comparison websites typically ask about your living situation, ensuring that the quotes you receive pertain to policies that adequately protect you. However, prior to making a purchase, be sure to review the terms and conditions for any specific details. For instance, confirm whether coverage is contingent on having a lock on your room door.

Try comparison sites in this order

Step 2: Check deals not on comparison sites

Here, we highlight exclusive offers that aren’t available on comparison websites. While we can’t guarantee they always have the best prices, they’re definitely worth exploring. Remember to include the voucher as a discount and compare it to your top quote from comparison sites to see if it offers a better deal.

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: Struggling to get cheap cover? Go to a broker

If you’re struggling to obtain insurance coverage, consulting a broker should be your next step. Insurance brokers are specialists in the field, well-versed in the market, and can guide you in securing the coverage that best fits your requirements.

Individuals with a complicated financial history—such as bankruptcies or county court judgments—often face challenges in finding affordable insurance, as they are viewed as higher-risk clients.

Additionally, residents in regions susceptible to flooding or subsidence, or those whose properties are vacant for extended durations, may also encounter difficulties.

In these situations, you can search on the British Insurance Brokers’ Association website (or phone 0370 950 1790) for help with your individual circumstances. It will list brokers in your area who may be able to help.

You might also consider Home Protect* and Intelligent Insurance*. These specialized providers collaborate with various insurance companies to assist individuals who face challenges in obtaining coverage.

Step 4: Check the policy carefully before buying

Always verify the policy details. After identifying the most affordable quote that meets your needs and budget, whether through comparison sites or directly, be sure to conduct two essential checks:

• Double-check the quote. Visit the insurance provider’s official website to verify that the policy meets your needs. Some comparison platforms may make certain assumptions to expedite their searches, which might not align with your specific situation.
• Examine the policy’s cover to try to shave some off the price. When assessing suitability, consider experimenting with the policy details to potentially lower the price even more. For instance, examine the excess and explore any reasonable adjustments that could help reduce the overall cost.

Step 5: See if you can get cashback on top of the cheapest quote

Once you’ve identified your most affordable provider, take a moment to ensure you’re not overlooking any cashback offers.

Keep in mind that the quote you receive through a cashback site may differ from what you’d find on a comparison site, so it’s crucial to review the costs thoroughly. Additionally, remember that cashback originates from the cashback site, not the insurance company itself.

Here are three key points to consider before pursuing cashback…

• Never count the cash as yours until it’s in your bank account. Cashback offers are not always fully reliable. There can be complications with tracking and distributing payments. Many cashback platforms are small businesses with minimal support, leaving you without any recourse if they encounter problems.
• Withdraw the cashback as soon as you’re allowed. Funds in your cashback site account lack any protection if the company goes out of business. It’s best to withdraw them as soon as you can.
• Clear your cookies or the cashback may not track. Although it typically shouldn’t cause any issues, if you’ve previously utilized comparison sites, there’s a slight chance that your cashback might not be recorded because of cookies stored on your device. Therefore, it’s wise to clear those cookies beforehand (learn more about cookies).

If you’re unfamiliar with cashback websites, be sure to check out our guide on the best cashback sites, which outlines their advantages and disadvantages before you start using them.

I want to insure the whole home in a home-share

Step 1: Go to a broker

To obtain a joint policy with multiple names, your most effective approach is to consult an insurance broker. These professionals have a deep understanding of the market and can provide valuable guidance to help you secure the appropriate coverage for your requirements.

The British Insurance Brokers’ Association website (or phone 0370 950 1790) lists brokers in your area who may be able to help.

Consider exploring Home Protect* and Intelligent Insurance*. These specialized providers collaborate with various insurance companies to assist individuals who may find it challenging to secure coverage.

Step 2: Check the policy carefully before buying

Always verify the terms of the policy. After locating the most affordable quote that fits your needs and budget, be sure to conduct two essential checks:

• Double-check the quote. Visit the insurance provider’s official website to confirm that the policy meets your needs. Some comparison platforms may rely on certain assumptions to expedite their search, which may not apply to your situation.
• Examine the policy’s cover to try to shave some off the price. When evaluating its suitability, consider experimenting with the policy specifics to potentially lower the price even more. For instance, examine the deductible and determine if a reasonable modification in this area can help reduce the overall cost.

I live with the homeowner

In this scenario, you have two options: either you can be included in your landlord’s insurance policy or you can opt for your own separate coverage.

If you decide to pursue your own room-only insurance, visit the section on obtaining room-only coverage in a home-sharing arrangement. Keep in mind that your belongings will not be protected in shared spaces unless there is a break-in.

IMPORTANT. If choosing to be included in your landlord’s policy is more affordable (or significantly less complicated), here are a few key points to keep in mind:

• It’s essential for the landlord to file the claim—can you rely on them to do this if only your belongings were stolen or damaged, especially since it might impact their no-claims bonus?
• Will they pass on the cash received from any claim to you?
• Is there a chance the landlord will significantly increase your rent to account for the insurance costs?

While you may have a good rapport with your landlord, it’s important to note that not all insurance companies allow lodgers to be added to an existing policy. This is due to outdated industry regulations, which might limit your options. It’s advisable to have your landlord verify this with their insurer.

How to make a contents insurance claim

Filing an insurance claim should be a simple process and doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. As long as you’ve read and comprehended the terms and excesses of your policy, you shouldn’t encounter any unpleasant surprises. However, if you find yourself in a position to make a claim, follow these steps…

• If it’s a theft, notify the police. To file a claim for any stolen items from your property, it’s essential to obtain a crime reference number. Be sure to report the theft to the police promptly to ensure your claim proceeds smoothly.
• If you’ve emergency damage, act quickly to sort it. 

1) To report a possible gas leak, contact the National Grid on 0800 111 999.
2) If you’ve electrical problems, call your local electricity distributor, NOT your energy company (see a list of emergency contact numbers).
3) Report any sewage hazards to your council.
4) When it comes to making repairs, speak to the landlord first, and don’t do anything unsafe yourself. The Association of British Insurers says your insurer should have a 24-hour claims line, if you need to contact it.

• And then submit your claim – as soon as possible. Reach out to your insurance provider as quickly as possible to prevent any delays in processing; complex claims can take longer, so initiating the process early is advantageous.

Typically, you’ll be required to pay an ‘excess,’ which is your share of the claim costs. Additionally, you’ll need to provide information regarding the loss or damage, along with supporting evidence, like photographs.

How to complain about your insurance provider

The insurance sector often struggles with a poor reputation for customer service, and while some clients may have positive experiences with certain providers, others can find them incredibly frustrating.

Frequent issues include delayed or denied claims, hidden fees, and exclusions buried in fine print. It’s usually best to reach out to your provider directly first; however, if that doesn’t resolve your issue…

You can take advantage of the free complaints tool Resolver. This resource assists you in organizing your complaint, and if the company fails to cooperate, it enables you to escalate the matter to the complimentary Financial Ombudsman Service.

Tenants’ contents insurance FAQs

Q – Can I get cheaper insurance if I make my home more secure?

A – By reducing your risk, you can enhance your likelihood of securing more affordable contents insurance.

One effective method is to bolster your home’s security. This can involve upgrading the main door lock or installing a lock on any private rooms—ideally, do both.

Without a certified lock, it can be challenging to find a policy that includes theft coverage, so it’s important to be aware of know your locks.

Ensure that all your belongings are stored in a locked room, as items left in shared spaces are often not covered against theft. It’s also essential to remember that theft coverage typically requires evidence of violent or forced entry.

Q – Will my old goods be replaced with new ones if I have to claim?

A – When it comes to replacing your belongings, there are two primary types of coverage. New-for-old policies provide you with brand new items (or cash equivalent) if your insurer approves the replacement of your damaged or stolen goods.

Alternatively, some policies reimburse you based on the item’s value at the time of loss, commonly referred to as indemnity policies.

While indemnity policies may have lower premiums, they offer only a minimal payout when you make a claim. Therefore, opting for new-for-old coverage is generally the better choice. When assessing the cost of your contents, consider the value of your items as if they were brand new.

Q – Do I have to pay an excess if I make a claim?

A – Most insurance policies include a mandatory excess, alongside an optional excess if you’ve chosen one. The mandatory excess is straightforward: it’s the portion you’re responsible for when filing a claim. For instance, if your television was stolen and you filed a £500 claim with a typical mandatory excess of £50, you would receive £450.

If you also have a voluntary excess of £50 in addition to the mandatory excess, your payout would decrease to £400 for the same claim.

When you purchase the policy, the insurer will inform you of the mandatory excess amount.

The optional excess is at your discretion. Opting for a higher voluntary excess can reduce your monthly or annual premium since the insurer’s payout will be lower if you make a claim. However, consider your financial situation carefully; if you may struggle to cover a significant portion of the claim amount, it’s wise to choose a lower voluntary excess.

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

A – Most insurance companies limit the duration for which you can leave your home unoccupied and still maintain coverage—typically, this is around 30 days.

Having a vacant property for extended periods increases the likelihood of burglary. Moreover, if a leak occurs in your home while you’re away for months, it can lead to greater damage to your belongings, resulting in higher claim amounts.

Q – I’m a leasehold homeowner, not a tenant. Do I need to take out buildings and contents insurance?

A – Many individuals purchasing flats, especially those opting for new developments, often find themselves as leaseholders instead of freeholders.

As leaseholders, they possess the right to inhabit the property but do not own the building or the land on which it stands; ownership lies with a different landlord or property management firm.

Typically, it is the landlord’s duty to insure the building itself—covering aspects like its structure and the cost of rebuilding in case of a disaster—however, this does not extend to insuring your personal belongings (it’s wise to verify this).

If you hold a lease, be cautious not to assume that your landlord’s insurance covers your contents as well; you will need to secure your own insurance policy.