Vinyl flooring buildings or contents?

Head_in_the_Clouds_2

I have just tried to make my first ever claim on my contents insurance. This is for a large tear to vinyl flooring in the kitchen. As I have accidental damage I thought it would be quite straightforward. I then get told that vinyl flooring is under buildings and not contents and as such has a £500 instead of £50 excess. Does anyone know if this is true? How can I get them to accept it is contents just like a carpet? Are they trying anything to stop paying out? Would appreciate some help.

dacouch

Who are you insured with?

huckster

Vinyl flooring is under Buildings. You would not take it with you, if you moved home.

Why is there a £500 x/s under Buildings ? Did you apply a large voluntary excess because you thought that you would be unlikely to claim under Buildings?

dacouch

http://www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk/publications/ombudsman-news/30/30-ins.htm

Head_in_the_Clouds_2

I am insured with Allianz. And no - didn't go for a large excess on buildings, didn't even look at it as contents was important to me. Didn't dream that I would need to claim on buildings anyway and certainly didn't think vinyl flooring would be part of the building. After all, you could take it up if you really wanted to , just like a carpet. Although must agree a bit unlikely.

So...no chance then?

dacouch

How come your excess is so high

huckster

Typical excess is £100 -£150 on Buildings.

Are you reading the excess of Subsidence which is usually £500 plus, though £1000 more typical.

gordikin

Personally I wouldn't put a claim in for vinyl flooring. You'll have an excess to pay and more than likely increased premiums in the future which will cost more than a 'repair' or a replacement.