A leaking radiator at 2 AM, a fence flat on the lawn after a storm, or a wedding ring lost down the drain can cause instant stress. Most people only think about home insurance when something goes wrong, making policy details very important.
According to the Association of British Insurers, UK insurers paid out a record £6.1 bn in property claims, with weather damage accounting for £1.2 billion in 2025.
Homes change, and gardens grow, so policies bought five years ago may not meet your current requirements. Taking a few minutes to review your coverage today can reduce stress later.
At Bookends London, we specialise in offering tailored insurance solutions designed to meet your unique needs.
Key Things to Check in Your Home Insurance
Here are the seven key things to check in your home insurance before it costs you:
1. Check Your Buildings Sum Insured
Your buildings insurance should cover the cost of rebuilding your home rather than its market value. Rebuilding costs have risen sharply due to higher material and labour prices, meaning if you rely on an old number, you might lack sufficient coverage. Use the BCIS rebuild calculator or ask a surveyor for an updated estimate every few years to stay up to date.
2. Review Your Contents Cover Properly
Go through each room and count everything you own, including often-forgotten items such as:
- Furniture
- Electronics
- Clothes
- Kitchen items
- Books
- Items stored in the loft
Most people undervalue their total by thousands of pounds. If a fire or flood occurred, your insurance should cover the full cost to replace all your belongings rather than just a fraction of them.
For a visual representation, explore this guide that clearly explains how to choose the right cover without overpaying:
3. Add Accidental Damage Cover
Standard policies exclude accidental damage, which means you may not be covered if:
- Wine spills on the rug
- A football breaks the T.V.
- A drill goes through a pipe while installing a shelf
A 2026 Aviva report found that the average accidental damage claim reached £1,869 in 2026, representing a 63% increase from £1,148 in 2022. This shows how quickly a slip with a hot iron or a dropped TV can lead to a large bill.
This add-on is inexpensive, but it can save families, pet owners, and new homeowners money in the long run. Check if the coverage includes mobile phones and laptops, as these are the items most often dropped.
4. List Your High Value Items
Several policies limit single-item claims to about £1,500-£2,000. Items like engagement rings, watches, bikes, and designer handbags can be expensive. To protect these items, include their names and values in your policy. Remember to take photos, keep receipts, and check if they are covered when you take them away from home.
5. Confirm Cover for Outdoor Structures
Garden rooms, home offices, hot tubs, pergolas, and outdoor kitchens have changed UK back gardens. When a storm hits, and a tree falls, you may wonder if your studio is considered part of the house or an outbuilding with a lower insurance limit. The way this is worded is important.
According to Elfords, many UK homeowners are investing more in their outdoor buildings without reviewing their insurance cover. These structures fall under different terms, so it is worth checking the details before any issues arise.
6. Look at Your Liability Protection
If a guest trips on a loose tile or a roof slate falls on a parked car, your liability coverage can help, up to £2 million. Always check this amount and confirm that tradespeople have their own coverage. If you own a dog, ensure pet incidents are also included, and pay attention to the small print regarding legal fees.
For a clearer understanding of the features that belong in any strong home insurance policy, explore this buildings insurance guide that breaks down what to view before you buy.
7. Inspect Alternative Accommodation Limits
If a kitchen flood makes your home unlivable, alternative housing coverage can help pay for temporary accommodation while repairs are being made. Coverage limits can range from a fixed amount to 20% of your building’s insured value. Be sure to check if your policy includes pet boarding, as many do not automatically cover pets.
Conclusion
A home insurance policy works best when it matches your current lifestyle, not what it was years ago.
Assess your coverage at least once a year and right after any major renovations or purchases. Regular checks keep your policy accurate and reliable.
Schedule a quick 15-minute call with an insurance expert today to make sure you have the right protection before any unexpected events occur.
Have questions or need assistance? Contact us at Bookends London and we will be in touch shortly to provide the help you require.
