Accidental damage home insurance

What is accidental damage insurance?

Accidental damage insurance is an optional safeguard you can add to your home insurance policy. It's designed to protect against damage to your property or belongings that occurs suddenly and without intent. The specific definition of accidental damage may vary between home insurance companies. However, it often includes things like drilling through a water pipe to spilling coffee all over the carpet, and from broken TVs to smashed windows, accidental damage caused by a neighbour or even a vehicle hitting your property.

Buildings insurance and accidental damage

An accidental damage policy added to your buildings insurance can offer cover for:

• Broken glass windows

• Damage to bathroom fittings

• Damaged drains, pipes, cables, and tanks

• Cracked wall tiles

• Damaged kitchen units and built-in appliances

• Collision damage

• Accidental holes in walls

• Damage to locks or keys

Contents insurance: protecting your belongings

An accidental damage policy added to your contents insurance can offer cover for:

• Accidental damage to gadgets like your laptop, mobile phone or smartwatch at home

• Physically broken TVs

• Damage to furniture

• Spills on carpets

• Property damage in the garden

Are your items covered everywhere?

You should check the terms of your policy and if items are not covered outside of your home, including your garden, then you should be able to purchase personal possessions cover as an extra. Also, when moving house, check whether your contents will be covered. Some policies will extend the cover to using a professional removal firm.

Gadget insurance: a closer look

Particularly, keep an eye on the single item limit for any pay out. Most providers will only pay out up to a certain amount for each item. So, if the value of your electronic item is greater than the per-item limit, insurance won't cover it in full. In cases like this, you may need to insure the item separately. If you want to protect your mobile phone or a laptop you use on the go, you also have the option of gadget insurance which will protect your gadgets even when you take them out of the home.

Children, pets, and the fine print

Accidental damage insurance is particularly beneficial for homes with children, where the risk of spills and breakages is higher. However, while it can cover home entertainment equipment damage, marker pen on walls or juice spills might need extended coverage. Although accidental damage can be bought as an add-on, many policies still do not cover much of the damage caused by pets. If your furry friend knocks over an expensive vase, you might be covered, but if they chew through your sofa, you may be out of luck unless you have enhanced coverage.

Understanding policy exclusions

It's crucial to know what is not included in your accidental damage cover. Policies typically exclude deliberate damage, wear and tear, poor workmanship, electrical breakdowns, and vermin infestations. If you're planning any DIY work, read the policy before conducting any DIY work around your home because it could be more prudent to hire a professional tradesperson for skilled tasks.

The cost of peace of mind

The cost of adding accidental damage insurance to your policy depends on several factors, including the level of standard cover, the value of your building and contents, and your claims history. How often you pay: Paying monthly for home insurance spreads the cost of cover, but insurers often charge more in premiums versus an annual payment. The excess you pay: Excess is the initial amount you pay towards a claim before your insurer picks up the remainder. Paying more in voluntary excess indicates to insurers that you’ll only claim when it’s worth the higher cost, and in return they’ll offer lower premiums.

Renters and landlords: do you need accidental damage cover?

As a tenant you are only responsible for your possessions, so it’s worth considering taking out an accidental damage policy for your contents insurance. For landlords, accidental buildings cover can be a wise investment, especially for furnished properties. If the property is furnished, it’s also wise to take out adequate contents insurance. You can compare specialist landlord insurance quotes with MoneySuperMarket.

Finding the right cover for you

When it comes to insurance, one size does not fit all. Comparing home insurance quotes to find a cheaper deal is quick and easy with MoneySuperMarket. You'll want to strike the right balance between cost and coverage to ensure you're not overpaying for insurance you don't need or underinsuring against potential risks.

Accidental damage insurance can be a valuable addition to your home insurance policy, offering comprehensive protection and peace of mind. Whether you're a homeowner, tenant, or landlord, it's worth considering how this cover could help you manage the financial impact of life's little (and big) accidents. Remember, the best insurance policy is one that fits your unique needs and gives you confidence that you're prepared for whatever comes your way.