Content type: Guide

Buildings vs contents insurance: what’s the difference?

Most home insurance is sold as combined buildings and contents cover, but the two parts protect different things and are priced separately. Understanding the split helps you check you are covered for the right risks and avoid paying for what you don’t need.

Buildings insurance

Buildings insurance covers the structure of the home: walls, roof, floors, fixed fittings, and usually outbuildings and garages. The figure that matters is the rebuild cost, not the market value. Being underinsured can trigger an average clause that reduces a claim.

Contents insurance

Contents insurance covers possessions inside the home: furniture, electronics, clothing and valuables, usually up to a total sum insured, on a new-for-old or indemnity basis. Accidental damage is typically an optional add-on.

Continue to the Home Insurance hub for the full set of subhubs.