A lot of people remain unclear about what their home insurance really covers.
And if this applies to you, you might want to pay attention.
From sheds and plants to outdoor furniture, many assume these items are automatically protected, but coverage can actually vary significantly depending on the policy.
With that in mind, experts at Tesco Insurance have highlighted what is and isn’t covered by home insurance, and where homeowners could get caught out.
Alex Cross, Chief Customer Officer, said: “Gardens are often the heart of the home, especially during warmer months when people are spending more time and money on their outdoor spaces.
“Despite this, many people only check what their insurance covers after something has gone wrong.
“That’s why it’s important to understand what your home insurance policy covers upfront, to avoid unexpected costs later on.”
What home insurance may cover in my garden?
What is often covered in your garden with home insurance?
Fixed outdoor structures such as sheds and greenhouses, along with boundary walls, are usually covered by building insurance.
They are typically protected from damage caused by risks such as fire, flooding, or vandalism, although cover can vary between providers.
What is classed as ‘contents’ in your garden, and which items are covered?
Powered tools, including leaf blowers, trimmers and lawnmowers, as well as other tools and equipment stored in sheds or outbuildings, BBQs, bicycles and outdoor furniture, are often included under contents insurance.
These items may be covered against theft, fire, and damage, subject to policy limits. It’s important to check these limits before taking out a policy, as payouts can be capped.
Are plants in my garden covered?
Trees, shrubs, plants and lawns that you own and are within the boundary of your home may be covered under contents insurance, depending on the policy.
Cover may apply to loss or damage caused by specific risks, such as storm or flood, but is often limited.
Other damage caused by disease, theft or lack of maintenance is commonly excluded. Each provider will be different, so it’s important to check your policy details.
With car & home insurance timing matters far more than you’d think.
This is just a snippet, and one of scores of tricks from last night’s Martin Lewis Money Show Live Car & Home Insurance, watch the full show on https://t.co/f1Jz6pVj7E pic.twitter.com/yhxsFi98pa
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Where do gaps commonly occur in your garden with home insurance?
Although many risks can be covered if they occur, understanding gaps can help homeowners avoid unexpected costs and determine whether additional cover is needed.
Common exclusions can include theft of items left unsecured outside and damage caused by weather that doesn’t meet the insurer’s definition of a storm.
Fences are also commonly excluded from cover for storm or flood damage, while wear and tear or poor maintenance affecting outdoor structures and hedges may also not be covered.
Do you find home insurance useful? Let us know in the comments
