What is contents insurance?

Insurance companies in Ireland define 'contents' as the type of stuff you would take with you if you were to move house.Furniture, clothes, electrical items, money and jewellery are an example of the range of items classified as contents. Contents insurance also covers some fittings such as carpets and curtains. You should make sure that your policy covers these.

What does contents insurance cover?

Contents insurance covers your home contents against loss or damage by fire, explosion, lightning or earthquake,theft or attempted theft . It will also insure against water leakage, storm or flood damage.

Here is a summary of what is covered by the majority of insurers in Ireland;

• Fire, explosion, lightning, earthquake, smoke

• Escape of water or oil from any fixed water or heating installation or domestic appliance

• Impact involving an aircraft, aerial device or anything falling from them

• Vehicle, train or animal

• Falling trees or branches

• Falling aerials, satellite aerials, their fittings or masts

• Riot, civil commotion, strike, or political disturbance

• Malicious persons or vandals

• Storm or flood

• Subsidence or Heave of the site beneath the buildings or landslip

• Theft or attempted theft 

How much contents cover do I need?

The”insured sum” is the most important figure to consider. Get it wrong and you could lose out. Over estimate it and averaging will apply, underestimate it and you will be penalised.

Go through each room methodically. Bring a pen and paper, or ipad, or computer notebook, or whatever you prefer. List each item and put a rough value against it. Make sure you include the attic, the shed, the garage and any other possible storage area. Double check your valuations and make sure they are up to date. You can check the replacement value online for most items.

When you have completed your valuations you can then decide on the type of cover that you want.

There are two main types of contents cover, “New for old” and “Indemnity”

“New for Old” means that if an item is destroyed or stolen you will get the cost of replacing it with a new item.

“Indemnity” compensates you for the value of the item at the time of the loss.

When should I take out additional contents cover?

You may find that the average home contents policy does not cover you adequately for certain items . You should take out additional cover. It costs more but think of the cost of replacing the item.

Accidental Damage cover is good for when you accidentally break a valuable family treasure.

You can also get cover for listed items when outside your home. 

Start your quote today.