It may be that your property has been passed down through generations of your family or you have worked hard to buy your dream home. However you came to own your estate, you'll know its worth far more to you than just the cost of the bricks and mortar. You may be running a business from there or it's a lifestyle choice to live there. The sentimental value alone means it's vital that you take the correct measures to protect your house.
So what should you look for when choosing an insurance policy?
A Specialist Country House Insurance policy can include:
*Buildings and / or contents cover including accidental damage
*Cover for farm buildings and outbuildings
*Liability as Property Owner and Landowner
*Cover for antiques, paintings and items of a specialist nature
*Cover for high value jewellery and watches
*Worldwide all risks cover
*Your legal expenses for a range of issues
In addition, it may be that you use your country estates for alternative revenue streams such as office space, farm land rentals or wedding venues. You need to make sure you get a tailored insurance policy so all risks are covered.
You need to make sure you have the correct sum insured for buildings and contents. In our experience, the cost of rebuilding country houses can far exceed the market value of the property due to the unique structure of the house. It's vital that your insurance adequately covers your rebuilding costs or you may find yourself underinsured and having to pay the difference if a major catastrophe does strike.
Do you need to review your Country House Insurance?
Go to a specialist broker that deals with a suite of insurers. You should look for a dedicated and experienced account handler, a full claims handling service, and impartial advice on arranging an insurance policy that best suits your needs and budget.
Some brokers may offer a home visit if you wish to ensure they get the sums insured and cover right and advise you of any steps you can take to mitigate your risks.
Country house insurance is not something that can be bought on an online comparison website.
If you choose the right broker, you benefit from a competitive premium with a leading insurer combined with a specialist Country House Insurance broker.
James Mant, is a Partner at Greenfield Insurance Services. Greenfield Insurance Brokers, have been arranging Country House Insurance since 1989 and have access to over 25 country house insurance products, all with insurers they have worked with for many years and have a tried and tested quality claims service.
