Buying a new-build home is an exciting milestone. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or moving into a newly constructed property, new builds offer modern features, energy efficiency, and minimal maintenance — at least to start with.

But while a brand-new home might feel perfect and secure, it still faces the same risks as any other property. Fires, floods, theft, and accidental damage can all happen, regardless of how new your home is. That’s why home insurance for new builds is just as important as it is for older properties — and in some cases, even more tailored.

Here’s everything you need to know about insuring your new-build property in the UK.

Do You Need Home Insurance for a New Build?

In short — yes.

If you’ve bought your new build with a mortgage, your lender will likely require buildings insurance from the day you exchange contracts, not from the completion date. Even though the property is brand new, the risk of damage begins the moment you become legally responsible for it.

If you’ve purchased the home outright, insurance isn’t legally required — but protecting one of your biggest assets is a smart move.

What Does Home Insurance for New Builds Cover?

There are typically two types of home insurance to consider:

🧱 Buildings Insurance

This covers the structure of your home, including:

• Walls, roof, and floors

• Windows and doors

• Fitted kitchens and bathrooms

• Pipes and wiring

• Permanent fixtures and fittings

• Driveways, patios, and garages

It protects against risks such as:

• Fire and smoke

• Storm and flood damage

• Theft or vandalism

• Subsidence

• Burst pipes

• Accidental damage (optional)

🛋️ Contents Insurance

Contents insurance protects your personal belongings within the home, such as:

• Furniture

• Clothes and electronics

• Jewellery

• Kitchen appliances (if not fitted)

• Bikes and personal valuables

• Items stored in outbuildings

It covers events like theft, fire, water damage, and accidental breakage (if included).

What Makes New Builds Different to Insure?

Insuring a new build often comes with a few unique aspects:

✅ Structural Warranties

Most new builds come with a 10-year structural warranty, such as those provided by the NHBC (National House Building Council), Premier Guarantee, or LABC Warranty. These warranties cover major structural defects — but they do not replace buildings insurance.

Warranties typically cover:

• The structure (walls, roof, etc.)

• Foundations

• Major defects due to poor workmanship or materials

They do not cover accidental damage, weather-related issues, theft, or general contents — which is where home insurance becomes essential.

✅ Lower Risk, Lower Premiums

Because new builds are often more energy efficient, built to modern fire safety standards, and fitted with secure locks and alarms, many insurers consider them a lower risk. This could mean:

• Lower insurance premiums

• Fewer exclusions

• Improved claim experiences

❗ Accurate Rebuild Value

When taking out buildings insurance, you need to provide a rebuild cost — the amount it would take to rebuild your property from scratch, not the market value.

With new builds, this figure is often clearer, especially if provided by the builder. It’s still worth double-checking using the ABI rebuild calculator or your mortgage valuation report.

Tips for Insuring a New-Build Property

1. Start early – You may need insurance from the exchange date, not just completion.

2. Use a specialist provider – Some insurers offer tailored new build cover with better rates.

3. Check your warranty – Know what’s covered and what isn’t.

4. Add extras as needed – Such as accidental damage or legal expenses.

5. Update after moving in – Once you furnish the home, add contents insurance based on real values.

Do New Build Homeowners Need Contents Insurance Too?

Absolutely. While the property itself is new and protected structurally, your belongings inside are still at risk. Theft, fires, and accidents can happen even in brand-new homes.

Many people make the mistake of undervaluing their contents — especially when everything has just been purchased brand new. Take time to estimate the replacement cost of your furniture, gadgets, appliances, clothing, and valuables.

Can You Combine Buildings and Contents Insurance?

Yes — and for many new homeowners, combining both into a single home insurance policy makes sense. It’s convenient, often cheaper than buying separately, and ensures you don’t miss anything.

Look for policies that include:

• New-for-old replacement on contents

• Flexible cover for home improvements

• Accidental damage (especially if you have children or pets)

• Personal belongings cover outside the home (laptops, jewellery, phones)

Final Thoughts

New build homes are modern, energy-efficient, and often lower risk — but no home is immune to life’s unexpected events. Having the right home insurance policy in place from day one protects your investment, your belongings, and your peace of mind.

With competitive premiums and policies tailored for newer properties, getting insured is easier and more affordable than you might think.

Secure Your New Home Today

Looking for reliable and affordable home insurance for your new build?

👉 [Get a Home Insurance Quote Now]
✅ Cover from the day you exchange contracts
✅ Competitive premiums for new builds
✅ UK-based claims and support team

Make sure your new start is fully protected — get your policy sorted today.