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We might be using summer as a helpful prompt to get you organised, because really, all of these policy extras are very important throughout the year. However, if you are like us, summer is a great motivator to get everything sorted so you can sit back and relax. This is especially true if you are one of the lucky ones with a beach to head to! Here are some top home insurance considerations heading into summer!
All things building insurance
- Subsidence: have you heard of this one? Summer dry spells cause soil shrinkage, which is one of the most common (and costly) causes of subsidence claims in the UK. Check your policy explicitly covers it and note the typical £1,000 excess. Could you cover that?
- Storm damage: we are hoping for none of that… but it is the UK after all. Make sure you confirm what counts as a "storm" under your policy (insurers often require specific wind speeds to qualify).
- Escape of water: last thing on your mind! But burst pipes from ageing infrastructure are unfortunately common. Make sure this is included in your policy… and again check the excess!
- Rebuild value vs market value: another one to easily miss. Your sum insured should reflect the rebuild cost, not what you'd sell the house for. These can differ significantly. You can use the ABI rebuild calculator to check and make sure you are confident.
Don’t forget contents insurance
- Garden contents: have you splashed out on some new garden furniture, BBQs, and outdoor equipment? These are often covered only up to a low sublimit (e.g., £500–£1,000) or excluded entirely if left outside overnight. Let’s check ahead of summer for peace of mind.
- : do you love to feel the wind in your hair? If you're cycling more, make sure you confirm bikes are covered away from home. Top tip! Check the single-item limit.
- High-value items: we’ve all been there. Lost jewellery, cameras, or sports equipment on holiday… Ensure each item you are taking is separately listed, so you get the full value back.
Some important extras….
- Accidental Damage: Covers things like spilling drinks on a laptop or putting a foot through the ceiling during loft work.
- Alternative Accommodation: If your home becomes uninhabitable (e.g. after a flood or fire), check how long your insurer will cover alternative accommodation and up to what amount.
- Legal Expenses Cover: Covers disputes with neighbours, contractors, or landlords if you're having work done.
- Home Emergency Cover: Typically covers boiler breakdowns, lost keys, roof damage, or plumbing failures needing urgent attention.
Would you like advice on what to look for when comparing policies or how to handle a specific situation like renovation or renting your home out? Let’s chat! We can streamline the process and leave you feeling positive, confident, and ready for summer!
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