When you buy home insurance, a contract between you and an insurer that protects your house and belongings against unexpected damage or loss. Also known as house insurance, it’s not just about covering the building—you’re paying for peace of mind when things go wrong. But here’s the thing: most people don’t know what’s really in their policy until they need it. And that’s when the surprises hit—like finding out your flooded basement isn’t covered, or your expensive bike got stolen and you’re out of luck.
Structural coverage, the part that pays to rebuild or repair your house after fire, storm, or vandalism is usually standard. But what about detached garages? Garden sheds? Fences? Those often have limits—or aren’t covered at all. Then there’s personal belongings, your stuff inside the house: clothes, electronics, furniture, jewelry. Most policies cover these, but only up to a certain amount. That $5,000 diamond ring? You’ll need extra coverage. And don’t assume your laptop is protected if it’s stolen from your car—that’s a common gap.
What about liability protection, the part that pays if someone gets hurt on your property and sues you? That’s usually included, and it’s critical. If a guest slips on your icy walkway and breaks a hip, this covers medical bills and legal fees. But if your dog bites someone and your policy excludes certain breeds? You’re on your own. And then there’s additional living expenses, money for hotel stays or meals if your home is unlivable after damage. Most policies offer this, but only for a limited time. A month? Two? That’s not enough if repairs take months.
What’s missing? Floods. Earthquakes. Sewer backups. These are almost always excluded unless you pay extra. And wear-and-tear? Nope. A roof that leaks because it’s 20 years old? Not covered. Insurance pays for sudden events—not neglect. That’s why checking your policy each year matters. If you added a home office, bought new jewelry, or renovated your kitchen, your coverage might be outdated.
And here’s what most agents won’t tell you: the cheapest policy isn’t always the best. It might look good on paper, but if it has high deductibles, low coverage caps, or too many exclusions, you’ll end up paying more when you file a claim. That’s why switching isn’t just about saving a few pounds—it’s about making sure you’re actually protected.
Below, you’ll find real stories and clear breakdowns of what’s covered, what’s not, and how to make sure your home insurance actually works when you need it most. No jargon. No fine print traps. Just what you need to know to avoid being left out in the cold.
Home insurance covers your house, belongings, liability, and living expenses if you're displaced. But not everything - floods, wear and tear, and high-value items often need extra coverage.