Buildings and Contents Insurance
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Access Comprehensive, Uncomplicated Cover
If you're a first-time buyer or new homeowner, understanding what kind of home insurance you need can feel overwhelming. You might be searching:
- "Do I need buildings and contents insurance as a first-time buyer?"
- "What’s the difference between buildings and contents insurance?"
- "When should I get home insurance when buying a house?"
Let’s simplify it.
Buildings and Contents Insurance — also known as Home Insurance — provides vital financial protection for both the structure of your home and the belongings inside it. Whether you’re buying your first flat or moving into your dream home, it’s crucial to ensure your cover matches your needs, lifestyle, and property type.
Organising the right cover isn’t always straightforward, especially if your mortgage or insurance is arranged through your company. That’s where expert advice can make a significant difference.
How Buildings and Contents Insurance Works
What Is Buildings Insurance?
Buildings Insurance covers the structure of your home — including walls, windows, roof, floors, and even permanent fixtures like a fitted kitchen or bathroom. If you’re using a mortgage to buy a property, your lender will usually require buildings insurance before completion.
We can help you to answer these common questions:
- “Do I need buildings insurance before exchange?”
- “Buildings insurance for mortgage approval”
- “Best buildings insurance for new builds”
It Covers:
- Fire, storm or flood damage
- Subsidence
- Theft or attempted theft causing structural damage
- Damage caused by burst pipes (escape of water)
It Doesn’t Cover:
- General wear and tear
- Vandalism or malicious acts (unless you add extra protection)
- Contents or personal belongings
Tip: If you’re buying a flat, buildings insurance is usually included in your service charge.
What Is Contents Insurance?
Contents Insurance protects your personal belongings inside the home, such as furniture, electronics, clothing, and jewellery. A good rule of thumb: if you could pick up your house and shake it, anything that falls out is likely covered by Contents Insurance.
We are here to answer any questions you may have, such as:
- “What does contents insurance cover?”
- “Do I need contents insurance as a renter or homeowner?”
- “Contents insurance for new home buyers”
It Covers:
- Theft, fire, or flood damage
- Accidental damage (if added)
- Personal belongings inside your home
It Doesn’t Cover:
- General wear and tear
- High-value items over single-item limits (unless specified)
- Unoccupied properties for 30–60+ days (unless pre-agreed)
First-time buyer insight: Although it’s not required by mortgage lenders, contents insurance gives peace of mind and is strongly recommended — especially if you’re moving in with new furnishings or expensive tech.
Optional Extras Worth Considering
Many homeowners and new buyers ask, “What extras should I include in my home insurance?” These can be valuable additions depending on your lifestyle and property use:
Accidental Damage Cover
Protects against mishaps like spilling wine on the carpet or putting a foot through the ceiling while in the loft.
Personal Possessions Cover
Extends protection to items taken outside the home – such as mobile phones, watches, or laptops.
Legal Expenses Cover
Offers legal support on issues like contract disputes or property disagreements.
Home Emergency Cover
Pays for immediate repairs if the boiler breaks, there's a power outage, or you have a pest infestation.
Bicycle & Garden Cover
Add cover for garden furniture, play equipment, and bikes – even if stored in a shed.
Why Use Broadbench?
At Broadbench, we understand that buying a home — especially for the first time — is one of life’s biggest milestones. Our expert advisers help clients:
Access the right cover, stress-free
We help you compare and tailor policies, including buildings and contents insurance for first-time buyers or contractors buying through their limited company.
Optimise for tax-efficiency
If you’re a business owner, landlord, or contractor, we’ll help you secure insurance in the most cost-effective and tax-smart way, especially for buy-to-let properties owned through a company.
Navigate complex cases
Whether you’re self-employed, a director, or working under a contract, Broadbench understands how to structure protection to fit your income and mortgage situation.
Save time and money
We guide you through policy comparison, optional extras, and exclusions — ensuring you only pay for the cover you actually need.
All statements concerning the tax treatment of products and their benefits are based on our understanding of current tax law and HM Revenue and Customs’ practice. Levels and bases of tax relief are subject to change.
Let’s Talk About Your Specific Needs
No two homes or homeowners are the same. Whether you're still Googling “how to get home insurance as a first-time buyer” or you're ready to take the next step, our advisers will help you secure the most suitable, affordable protection.
First-time buyer?
Check out our First-Time Buyer Home Insurance Checklist and ensure that you're covered before you get the keys.
Speak to a Broadbench adviser today to get personal support and compare buildings and contents insurance quotes that work for you.
Get the facts
Download our guide to Buildings and Contents Insurance.
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FAQs
How do I calculate the rebuilding cost of my property?
The rebuilding cost of your home is not the same as its market value. It represents the amount needed to completely rebuild your home, excluding the value of the land.
You can check your current home insurance documents, surveyor’s report, or mortgage valuation (if done in the last two years) for the rebuild cost. Alternatively, you can use the BCIS rebuild calculator for an estimate: BCIS Rebuild Cost Calculator.
Will my insurance cover items away from home?
Yes, but only if you have selected the appropriate cover. The following optional add-ons provide protection for personal items outside the home:
- Personal Items – Covers valuables such as jewellery and handbags.
- Technology & Entertainment – Covers gadgets, laptops, and tablets.
- Pedal Cycles – Covers bicycles.
Check your policy schedule to confirm what is included.
Does home insurance cover wear and tear?
No, home insurance covers sudden and unexpected damage. It does not cover items that have naturally worn out over time, broken down, or been poorly maintained. Keeping your home and possessions well-maintained is essential, as insurance is not a substitute for proper upkeep.
Do I need Landlord Insurance?
If you rent out a property, standard home insurance may not be enough. Landlords face additional risks, such as:
- Tenant-related damage
- Loss of rent
- Liability claims from tenants
By informing us that your property is rented out, we can tailor a policy to suit your needs.
How much does landlord insurance cost?
The cost of landlord insurance depends on several factors, including:
- Property location and size
- Construction type
- Number of tenants and property use
- Level of cover selected
For an accurate quote, it’s best to discuss your specific needs with an adviser.
What landlord insurance do I need?
We offer a variety of landlord insurance policies to suit different needs, including:
- Residential landlord insurance – For properties rented to individuals or families.
- Commercial landlord insurance – For business premises you lease out.
- Mixed-use landlord insurance – For properties with both residential and commercial tenants.
- Portfolio landlord insurance – For multiple rental properties under one policy.