Shed insurance

The hidden value in your garden

For many homeowners, a shed or outbuilding is simply a place to store the lawnmower and a few gardening tools. However, as sheds become targets for burglars and as we convert them into offices, summer houses, or even yoga studios, the value contained within these humble structures can skyrocket. With expensive bicycles, power tools, and office equipment often housed within, it's crucial to ask yourself: should I insure my shed or outbuilding?

Understanding home insurance coverage in the garden

When it comes to home insurance, many policies do include coverage for sheds and other outbuildings located on your property. However, the extent of this coverage can vary significantly between policies. It's essential to read the fine print to understand exactly what is covered and what isn't.

Many domestic buildings insurance policies extend cover to outbuildings (including greenhouses and summerhouses) as standard, so as long as your home insurance is up to date, you should be covered against weather damage to the fabric of the shed.

The importance of buildings insurance for sheds

Buildings insurance is a key component when insuring your shed or outbuilding. This type of insurance often includes outbuildings as standard, but it's important to ensure that the rebuild cost of your shed is accurately factored into your insurance. This step is vital to avoid any shortfalls in coverage should the worst happen.

Protecting the contents of your shed

Contents insurance is where you need to pay close attention. This insurance typically covers items in your shed against theft, damage, fire, and flood. From lawnmowers to bicycles, and work equipment to golf clubs, the value of the contents of your shed could add up to a hefty amount. Luckily, contents insurance will usually help cover these items against the cost of repair and replacement costs caused by theft, malicious damage, fire and flood.

However, high-value items may need to be declared separately due to single item limits on your policy. Remember to include the contents of your shed or outbuilding when estimating the value of your home contents and to note high-value items. Your home insurance policy will have a single item limit, so if there is anything worth more than this in your shed you will need to declare it.

Special provisions for expensive items

If you have expensive items in your shed, such as high-end bicycles or specialist tools, you may need to list these separately on your insurance policy. Additionally, for items that you use outside the property, consider adding personal belongings cover to your policy. This ensures that your valuables are protected even when they are not within the confines of your home.

Also bear in mind that any high-value items, like a bike, which are damaged or stolen when you take them off your property won’t be covered unless you’ve opted for cover away from home (sometimes called personal belongings cover).

Coverage for greenhouses and summer houses

Standard home insurance policies should cover other structures such as greenhouses and summer houses. However, if you have expensive items within these spaces, you may need to consider additional contents insurance to ensure they are fully protected.

What isn't covered by home insurance?

It's equally important to be aware of what is not typically covered by home insurance. Cars, motorbikes, and sometimes bicycles may not be included, and outbuildings that are used for rental purposes might require a separate landlord's insurance policy.

Insuring allotment sheds

For those with allotment sheds, it's worth noting that these are usually not covered by standard home insurance policies. While personal possessions cover may insure some items, it's generally advisable not to leave valuables in these sheds overnight.

Converting your shed for new uses

If you're planning to use your shed as an office, bedroom, or for any other non-traditional purpose, you'll need to check if your current home insurance covers business use. You may also need public liability or business insurance, especially if you employ anyone or have clients visiting your shed-turned-office. Additionally, be aware that building regulations and planning permission might be required if you're creating permanent living spaces.

Keeping your shed secure

Security is a key factor in ensuring your shed or outbuilding is insurable. Insurers may refuse claims if they deem the outbuilding was not properly secured. Recommended security measures include:

• Installing secure locks

• Setting up lighting systems

• Using alarms

• Hiding valuables from view

• Security marking tools and equipment

Getting a quote

When it comes to getting a quote for your home insurance, including your shed or outbuilding, comparing options can save you money. You can avoid paying a shedload for your shed or outbuilding contents insurance when you compare home insurance with MoneySuperMarket. Simply provide a few details about your home and circumstances, and you'll receive a range of options from partner providers.

Remember, your shed or outbuilding is more than just a storage space – it's a valuable part of your property that deserves the right protection. By taking the time to ensure you have adequate insurance coverage, you can rest easy knowing that whether you're storing bikes, tools, or transforming the space into a cosy retreat, your investment is secure.