Home insurance quotes: a quick guide
Are you looking for home insurance quotes for the first time and confused about what exactly you need?
If you are a first-time buyer, becoming a tenant for the first time or have always taken home insurance with you mortgage lender, you may have never compared home insurance quotes before. At first it may seem very confusing with the variety of options you have. You are probably unsure of the type and level of cover that you need. Have a read of our guide and any queries you may have may be answered.
Should I get a quote for buildings insurance, contents insurance or both?
Getting buildings insurance is often essential if you are taking out a mortgage, own your home outright or are a Landlord. Buildings insurance will cover you for the structure and permanent fixtures of your home. Typically your buildings insurance will cover against fire, smoke, subsidence, malicious damage, storm damage, explosion, lightning and flood damage. Polices can also cover against damage to drains, fixed glass and pipes. It is in most instances a good idea to consider adding accidental damage to your policy so that your home is covered against damage caused by yourself or others around you.
Having contents insurance is vital for not only home owners but also for Tenants renting their home. Your possessions inside your home can accumulate to thousands of pounds, if they were to be damaged in a fire or stolen, contents insurance provides you with the cover to enable you to replace them. Like buildings insurance, accidental damage can be added to your policy which will cover your contents against damage to upholstery, household fixtures and electrical equipment that is caused by yourselves or others around you.
Many people will require both and will opt for a combined buildings and contents insurance policy.
What extra cover should I consider when obtaining a home insurance?
Some home insurance policies will not only include cover for fire, theft and flood, but will also offer the following features as standard or as an optional extras:
- Possessions away from the home
- Accidental damage cover
- Family legal protection
What do I need to consider before applying for home insurance?
- You need to consider the cost of rebuilding your home, if taking buildings insurance.
- If taking contents insurance you need to consider the value of your contents to ensure you are fully covered.
- If you have a joint mortgage, you may need a joint home insurance policy.
- It is important to get your cover to start at exactly when you need it.
- Do you need your mortgage lender’s interest noted on your buildings insurance?
How do I get a good deal on my home insurance?
There are several ways to get a good deal on you home insurance. Here are some options to consider:
- Have a burglar alarm professionally fitted, maintained and activated at night / when unoccupied.
- Fit secure locks on your external doors and windows
- Install Security Lights
- Join a neighbourhood watch scheme
- Install smoke alarms in your home.
Obtaining a home insurance quote is actually easier and quicker than it may first seem. With comparethemarket.com you enter your details once and we will search top home insurance providers to find a great deal for you.