Last updated: 02 November 2025

Policy Cover Explained

Insurance policies aren’t written to be bedtime reading. This page translates common sections into plain English so you can see what’s typically covered, what’s not, and why the details matter.

Buildings vs contents

Buildings is the fabric of the home — walls, floors, fixed kitchens and bathrooms. Contents is most of what you’d take with you if you moved. Some items can sit between the two (e.g., fitted wardrobes) depending on wording.

Perils and exclusions

Policies list insured events (perils) like fire, storm, flood, and escape of water. Exclusions remove certain causes (wear and tear, defective design) or situations (unoccupied property). The cause you report determines which section applies and the excess you’ll pay.

Trace and Access

Cover to find and access the source of a leak, and make good the access holes. It is not the repair to the failed pipe/valve itself unless stated. Limits vary widely.

Excesses, limits and endorsements

• Excess: the amount you pay towards each incident per section.
• Limit: the maximum the policy will pay for a particular item or section.
• Endorsement: a change to standard wording for your policy only — read these carefully.

Alternative accommodation

If your home is uninhabitable due to an insured event, the policy may cover reasonable alternative accommodation. Ask whether pets are included and how long the limit lasts.

Wear and tear vs sudden events

Insurers cover sudden, accidental damage more readily than problems that build up over time. Keep maintenance reasonable; it avoids disputes and protects your position.