What Is Home Insurance?
Home insurance helps protect your property and belongings against unexpected events such as theft, fire, flooding and accidental damage.
In the UK, there are different types of home insurance depending on whether you rent or own your property.
For most expats renting in the UK, contents insurance is usually the most relevant type of cover to consider first. Homeowners may also require buildings insurance or combined policies.
Understanding the Different Types of Cover
Contents Insurance
Protects your belongings inside the property.
Usually includes:
- Furniture
- Electronics
- Clothing
- Personal possessions
Best For:
- Homeowners
- Renters
- Students and professionals renting furnished properties
Buildings Insurance
Covers the structure of the property itself.
Usually includes:
- Walls and roof
- Floors and ceilings
- Permanent fixtures and fittings
Covers risks such as:
- Fire
- Flooding
- Storm damage
- Subsidence (sometimes)
Best For:
- Homeowners
- Mortgage holders
Combined Buildings & Contents Insurance
A single policy combining both types of protection.
Benefits:
- Simpler management
- Often better value
Challenges Expats May Face
Some insurers may ask for:
- UK Address History
- UK Claims History
- Proof of Ownership or Tenancy
Common issues include:
- Higher premiums initially
- Limited UK insurance history
- Understanding policy wording
Many mainstream insurers cover expats and overseas residents, but it’s important to compare policies carefully and ensure you understand exactly what is included.
Easily Compare Home Insurance
Enter your postcode to start searching for competitive home insurance quotes.
Comparison websites can help you compare pricing, cover levels and optional extras from multiple insurers.
Other Places To Compare Home Insurance
Comparison websites help you get multiple quotes with little input. Just enter your details and the type of home insurance cover you need and wait for the quotes to come through. Chdck the exclusions and make sure you’re happy with the provider before clicking buy. Here are some of the most popular home insurance compariosn websites.
Home Insurance Comparison Portals
Einsure Home Insurance
Einsure works with multiple home insurance providers to provide you with some of the most competitive quotes in the marketplace, saving you both time and potencially money. The form takes minutes to complete and you can easily start your policy online.
Compare The Market
With one of the most memorable marketing campaigns, Compare the Market offers you the opportunity to compare home insurance from multiple providers in one place. As a customer you also receive additional perks, which may be worth looking at.
MoneySuperMarket
MoneySuperMarket is one of the leading insurance comparison websites in the UK, offering home insurance including contents, buildings and combined cover. Expect quick results and an easy “buy online” experience.
Go.Compare
Go Compare offers a wealth of home insurance providers in the UK, offering Combined, Buildings and Contents policies from reputable companies. Optional extras available including home emergency cover and legal protection. Easy to get quotes and buy online.
By utilising comparison websites for your home insurance cover, you can not only save time, but there may also be an opportunity to save money. But don’t discount using direct providers such as Direct LIne, Aviva or Admiral. By going direct, you can occasionally save money and don’t forget to use cashback websites such as Quidco.
Types of Home Insurance Providers
Specialist Providers
Some insurers offer:
- High-value home insurance
- Landlord insurance
- Expat-friendly cover
- International property insurance
Tips for Lowering Home Insurance Costs
- Compare multiple quotes
- Improve home security
- Increase voluntary excess carefully
- Avoid unnecessary extras
- Build a UK claims history
Security improvements may include:
- Alarm systems
- Smart doorbells
- Secure locks
What to Look for Before Buying a Policy
Check:
- Excess amounts
- Exclusions
- Escape of water cover
- Accidental damage cover
- Alternative accommodation cover
The cheapest policy is not always the best. Make sure the cover matches your actual needs and property value.
Do Renters Need Insurance?
If you rent a property in the UK, the landlord is usually responsible for buildings insurance—but your belongings are not covered.
Renters should consider:
- Contents insurance
- Personal possessions cover
- Accidental damage cover
Insurance When Buying a Property
Mortgage providers usually require buildings insurance before completion.
You may also consider:
- Life insurance
- Income protection
- Mortgage protection insurance
Useful Guides
Here are some helpful guides for housing and insurance:
- Useful Guides Here
Frequently Asked Questions
Is home insurance mandatory in the UK?
No, but buildings insurance is usually required for mortgages.
Do renters need insurance?
Yes, contents insurance is recommended for renters.
Can expats get UK home insurance?
Yes, although some insurers may require additional information.
What’s the difference between buildings and contents insurance?
Buildings covers the structure; contents covers belongings inside.
Does home insurance cover flooding?
Many policies do, but coverage varies.