UK Contents Insurance Basics

Latest research shows that the value of the contents of a typical home is around £42,000, which is about 42% more than it was in 1994.

Basic contents insurance covers you for theft and fire, with additional options covering you for accidental damage or loss, and protection for items in your shed or garage.

UK Buildings Insurance Basics

Buildings insurance covers you for damage to the basic structure of your property. You will usually be covered for damage by fire, flood, lightning, storm, explosions and earthquakes, as well as damage caused by leaking or burst water pipes or tanks.

Mortgage lenders will usually insist that you have good coverage through insurance because the property is their security on your mortgage in addition to being your home.

However, the insurance company you choose can be different from your lender, because it's worth shopping around for a better deal.

For anyone buying a flat on leasehold, buildings insurance is the responsibility of the freeholder.