Everything But The Kitchen Sink: How Home Insurance Covers More Than You Think

The recent weather in the UK is testament to the ongoing havoc being wreaked by climate change. We had a summer than was more like a tropical monsoon season, with flooding in many parts of the country and some very wet people in others. nnAn earthquake shook the country just days ago – causing over £10 million of damage according to the Association of British Insurers (ABI). And what with the global terror threat ever present, more people are taking holidays just to get some much-needed relaxation time. You may not realise it, but having a good home insurance policy can cover you in all the above eventualities. They’ll be discussed in greater detail below.nnWith regards to the earthquake incident, the more sceptical will surely raise an eyebrow when questioned as to if their insurance policies will cover for them for such an eventuality. ‘Surely there’ll be some get-out clause!’ the unbelievers cry. Not so. The ABI has confirmed the vast majority of policies will cover not only structural damage to the property, but will also pay for alternative accommodation should you need to move out of your home. Bear in mind the policy limit – there almost certainly won’t be a week in the Ritz on the cards – but up to a point you will be able to stay in a hotel for (minus your excess) free. nnMake sure you have detailed and date-marked photographs at hand, as making a claim this big is fraught with difficulty and requires a substantial armoury of evidence. The tremor has hopefully hammered home to British people that it’s not just those on the Pacific ‘rim of fire’ that are affected by the threat of ‘quakes, and has reinforced the case for a comprehensive home insurance policy.nnIn terms of flood risk, the potential claimant needn’t be worried either. A government report has stated that over £1 billion was paid out after the 2007 flooding, with the effect that 75% of those displaced by the floods will be returning to their homes by Easter. For those worried about buying a home in a flood-risk area, they should really be badgering their local government rather than their insurance company. Director general of the ABI Stephen Haddrill said: “Insurers want to continue to provide flood cover as standard to as many customers as possible. The statement can only continue if the government commits to addressing the lessons of last summer fully.”nnIn terms of holidaymakers, there is new evidence that their home contents insurance almost definitely covers them for items lost, damaged or stolen anywhere in the world. The standard contents insurance covers everything from cameras, bags and electronic valuables to personal effects. Be advised to check your policy carefully, but for the most part it seems to be the case. Why waste money on extra forms of insurance? A good home insurance policy should cover you for every eventuality – be it home or abroad.n