What could happen?

If your home is damaged or destroyed, repair and rebuilding costs quickly mount up and you will certainly be glad to have insurance in place to call upon. Replacing your possessions can also be expensive; the average value of contents in a three-bedroom home is estimated by some at £55,000. Without home insurance you would have to cover these costs yourself.

If you have a mortgage most providers will insist you take out buildings insurance as part of the conditions of your loan so it makes sense to protect such a valuable asset. If you live in a rented property, buildings insurance is usually your landlord’s responsibility.

Whether you own or rent your home, you are strongly advised to take out contents insurance to cover your possessions; the added benefit of this important cover is the inclusion of personal liability, protection you may not have anywhere else other than with your home contents insurance.