Insurance can help you replace items that have been lost or damaged by various accidents, breakages and problems in your home. The level of cover will depend on the type of insurance cover you want and get. As a general guide most standard insurance packages will cover you for loss or damage caused by fire, theft, flood or vandalism. If you require a more comprehensive insurance package that covers accidental damage and other possibilities then you may have to extend the standard cover and pay extra, check with the insurance company.

Contents insurance
You should consider this type of insurance if you would like the contents of your home covered. Most policies will cover you for fire, flood or water damage, vandalism and theft of all household possessions you would take with you when you move home, this can include computers, TVs and videos, stereo equipment, furniture, clothing and CDs. Accidental damage is sometimes covered, and sometimes not depending on your particular cover.

Items that are frequently taken out of the home, such as cameras and sports equipment, are usually covered by general polices. Some will also pay out if you accidentally damage another person’s property. Many insurers will pay for replacement door locks if you lose your house keys.

Buildings Insurance
You should get this type of insurance if you own your own home. This often covers the structure of your home, as well as permanent fixtures such toilets, baths, basins and fitted kitchens. Garden sheds, greenhouses and garages are usually covered. If you are not sure, ask yourself: can it be moved to a new home?

With most policies there will be an excess, typically between £50 and £100, which you will have to meet on any claim.

Golden Gates Housing Insurance Scheme
Tenants are not automatically covered for any of their home contents. All tenants are advised to take out insurance cover to make sure that their contents are fully insured against potential loss through theft, fire, vandalism or burst pipes.

While you are free to make your own arrangements, GGH has its own scheme. . Contact your local housing office for more information or click here.

Shopping around for the best policy can save you hundreds of pounds a year. There are many companies on the high street and the Internet, offering insurance cover at competitive rates.

Further links to leading insurance companies in the UK

For Further information on insurance visit:
Home insurance guide
Insurance guide 
Guide to home insurance