Home Insurance vs Contents Insurance
A plain-English comparison of two GeraSure policy lines — what each covers, what it excludes, typical annual premium, and how to choose.
Quick Answer
Home Insurance typically costs £150–£600/yr and Contents Insurance typically costs £60–£250/yr. Contents Insurance has the lower entry premium, but the right choice depends on what you need to protect — read the coverage below.
Home Insurance
Combined buildings and contents insurance for owner-occupiers. Protects the structure of your home (buildings) and everything inside it (contents) against fire, flood, theft, escape of water, and accidental damage.
- Avg annual premium
- £150–£600/yr
- Type
- property
- Available in
- 4 markets
Contents Insurance
Contents-only insurance for renters and homeowners who want to protect their possessions without insuring a building they do not own. Covers belongings against theft, fire, flood, and accidental damage.
- Avg annual premium
- £60–£250/yr
- Type
- property
- Available in
- 4 markets
What each policy covers
Home Insurance covers
- ✓ Buildings: fire, flood, storm, subsidence, escape of water
- ✓ Contents: theft, fire, accidental damage, flood
- ✓ Alternative accommodation if home is uninhabitable
- ✓ Liability to public (injury in your home)
- ✓ Emergency home assistance (burst pipes, boiler)
Key exclusions
- ✕ General wear and tear
- ✕ Pre-existing damage disclosed at inception
- ✕ Deliberate damage by the policyholder
- ✕ Unoccupied properties (over 30 days — check policy)
- ✕ Business equipment over standard limits
Contents Insurance covers
- ✓ Furniture, electronics, clothing, and appliances
- ✓ Theft — including burglary
- ✓ Fire and smoke damage
- ✓ Flood and water damage
- ✓ Optional: accidental damage
- ✓ Optional: away-from-home cover (personal possessions)
Key exclusions
- ✕ Buildings (structural elements)
- ✕ Vehicle contents
- ✕ Business equipment above policy limit
- ✕ Wear and tear
Where each is available
Home Insurance is also offered in Armenia, Georgia where Contents Insurance is not.
Contents Insurance is also offered in Germany, France where Home Insurance is not.
Frequently asked questions
Is home insurance more expensive than contents insurance?
Based on GeraSure's average annual premium ranges, home insurance typically costs £150–£600/yr and contents insurance typically costs £60–£250/yr. Contents Insurance usually has the lower starting premium. Your actual quote depends on your risk profile, location and cover level.
What is the difference between buildings and contents insurance?
Buildings insurance covers the physical structure of your home — walls, roof, floors, and fixed fittings. Contents insurance covers moveable possessions inside the home. Combined home insurance covers both in a single policy, which is typically cheaper than buying separately.
Do I need contents insurance as a renter?
Your landlord's insurance covers the building — it does not cover your personal belongings. Contents insurance protects your possessions and is strongly recommended for all renters.
More insurance comparisons
GeraSure is a comparison and referral service. Insurance products are provided by FCA-authorised or equivalent regulated insurers in each jurisdiction. GeraSure does not underwrite insurance policies and does not provide financial advice. Always read the policy wording before purchasing.