● Simple explanations • no jargon • quick next steps
Insurance isn’t always exciting — until you need it. Here’s what to consider during a purchase, and when each type of cover should start.
Not always legally required — but the right cover can protect you from unexpected costs during the purchase and from day one of ownership.
Home Buyers Insurance
Optional (but often worth it)
Helps reimburse some upfront costs if your purchase falls through for reasons beyond your control.
Buildings Insurance
Usually required by your lender
Covers the structure of the property. Most lenders require it from exchange of contracts.
Contents Insurance
Optional (recommended)
Protects your belongings inside the home. Useful as soon as you move items in.
Also called home buyer protection insurance. It’s a specialist policy designed to reduce the financial sting if your purchase doesn’t complete.
Tip: Policies vary. Always check the reasons you’re covered for, limits, and exclusions.
Typical cost
Often around £50–£150 as a one-off payment (policy dependent).
The essentials for protecting your property and belongings.
Buildings insurance
Covers walls, roof, floors and permanent fixtures. Most lenders require this from exchange of contracts.
Important: You become responsible at exchange, not completion — check start date carefully.
Contents insurance
Protects your belongings inside the home — furniture, electronics, clothes and valuables.
Many insurers offer combined buildings + contents at a discount.
Home buyers insurance
£80–£120 (one-off)
Buildings insurance
£200–£350 / year
Contents insurance
£50–£200 / year
These are typical ranges only. Your price depends on property value, location, cover limits and personal circumstances.
Want to sanity-check what you need and when it should start? We’ll talk it through — no pressure.
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 9am–8pm, Sat 10am–5pm
