How to insure your home against fire damage
Buildings insurance and contents insurance offer vital protection if there’s a fire at your home
Key takeaways
Buildings insurance protects the structure and permanent fixtures, while contents insurance covers portable items like furniture and clothes.
Fire damage is generally included in home insurance policies, so additional protection is usually unnecessary if you have both buildings and contents insurance.
Be aware of policy details and exclusions, such as higher premiums after a fire claim and specific scenarios where claims might be denied.
Ensure buildings insurance covers total rebuilding costs and contents insurance accurately reflects the value of your possessions.
Do I need to insure against fire?
When it comes to protecting your home, one of the most devastating events you could face is a fire. It's not just about the immediate damage. The aftermath can be a long and stressful process of claims, repairs, and sometimes even rebuilding. That's why having the right home insurance policy in place is crucial. But does regular home insurance cover fire? And how can you ensure your home is adequately protected?
What is classified as a fire?
Insurers usually define a fire as an event that involves actual flames. Damage from heat or smoke without flames is not typically covered unless you have accidental damage cover. It's important to understand how your insurer defines a fire, as this can vary between policies.
Does home insurance cover for fires?
Fire damage is generally included in home insurance policies, so there's usually no need for additional protection if you have both buildings and contents insurance. These policies can be taken out separately or as part of a combined insurance policy.
Buildings insurance safeguards the structure of your home and permanent fixtures like bathrooms, while contents insurance protects portable items such as furniture, clothes, and usually carpets.
However, while fire is usually covered, it's important to be aware of the policy details and exclusions.
There are a number of common exclusions to bear in mind. You may also find you have to pay more to get home insurance after a fire, as insurers often charge homeowners with previous claims higher premiums.
What isn’t covered?
There are certain scenarios where you might find yourself unable to claim for fire damage. For instance:
The fire happens while your home is unoccupied for longer than the maximum time stated in the policy (usually between 30 and 60 days). If you’re going away for longer than that, you’ll need unoccupied property home insurance to cover the cost of any damage caused by a fire.
The damage was caused by a hot item rather than an actual fire, in which case you will usually only be covered if you have paid to add accidental damage cover to your home insurance policy.
Claims related to negligence, such as failing to maintain smoke alarms or not informing your insurer about renovations that could increase the risk of fire, may also be denied.
You told your insurer you didn’t smoke but it is proved that your cigarette started the fire.
What should I do if there’s been a fire at my home?
If you experience a fire, it's essential to contact your home insurance provider as soon as possible. Buildings insurance will cover the cost of repairs or rebuilding, and contents insurance will help you replace your personal belongings.
The process of claiming can be lengthy, but the sooner you inform your insurer, the quicker you can begin to repair the damage. Insurers typically provide alternative accommodation if your home is uninhabitable and will send a loss adjuster to assess the damage. If you disagree with the loss adjuster's assessment, you have the right to hire your own loss assessor.
How do I make sure my home is fully covered?
Most home insurance policies cover fire damage as standard. But there are some common mistakes that home owners make that can leave them with a shortfall when it comes to a payout.
Make sure the rebuild value on your buildings insurance is accurate and enough to cover the total rebuilding costs. Likewise, don't underestimate the value of your possessions for contents insurance. It's wise to list items and their replacement costs accurately.
How can I prevent a fire?
Preventing fires is just as important as having the right insurance. Here are some fire safety tips to keep in mind:
Always extinguish candles before leaving a room.
Install and regularly check smoke alarms.
Keep cooking surfaces clean to prevent grease build-up.
Have open fires swept at least once a year (or twice if you burn wood).
Completely extinguish cigarettes.
Store matches and lighters safely away from children.
Understand your home insurance policy
Understanding the ins and outs of home fire insurance is key to ensuring your home and possessions are protected in the event of a fire. By familiarising yourself with what is and isn't covered, taking steps to prevent fires, and using comparison services to find the best insurance for your needs, you can rest easier knowing you're prepared for the unexpected. Remember, it's not just about having insurance; it's about having the right insurance for your unique situation.
Compare home insurance
You can protect your home against fire damage by taking out buildings and contents insurance with MoneySuperMarket’s home insurance comparison service. By providing details about yourself and your home, you can search for suitable insurance options that will give you peace of mind.
