Accidental damage: Is it worth it?

elly.alice

I'll be getting home insurance for our new house tomorrow and would like some advice on whether to bother with accidental damage? Never bothered before because only ever had contents insurance in our flat and always had furnished so not even our responsibility.

But in the new house would we benefit from accidental buildings and accidental contents? or should I save myself the £50 and go without it?

paddyandstumpy

It depends how clumsy you are...

kingstreet

Most home insurance offers basic accidental damage cover as standard.

You need to read the documentation for the cover you are considering to see if you think the extended accidental damage cover is worthwhile.

For example, accidental damage to fixed glass and sanitary fittings may be standard on buildings insurance, so pay specific attention to what extended accidental damage cover adds on to this.

FutureGirl

I, personally, think it's worth it for £50.

I've seen claims where, for example, there is damage to someones roof, but was classed a maintenance issue so not covered, yet the insurers covered all the internal damage under accidental damage. If they didn't have that cover they'd have had to stump the cost for all the internal damage as well. (Just one example).

It isn't just about whether you're clumsy or not, though mostly are.

Could you afford to replace the carpet in your biggest room if it got stained due to (for example) spilling nail varnish or paint on it?

ThinkingOutLoud_2

Consider whether all the years you rented - if you would have made a claim. If not, maybe it is not for you.

But maybe in your nice new house if would give you peace of mind.

In case you suddenly become clumsy;-)

DUTR

FutureGirl wrote: »

I, personally, think it's worth it for £50.

I've seen claims where, for example, there is damage to someones roof, but was classed a maintenance issue so not covered, yet the insurers covered all the internal damage under accidental damage. If they didn't have that cover they'd have had to stump the cost for all the internal damage as well. (Just one example).

It isn't just about whether you're clumsy or not, though mostly are.

Could you afford to replace the carpet in your biggest room if it got stained due to (for example) spilling nail varnish or paint on it?

It is about if the policy holder is clumsy, something like spills on the carpet maybe claimable, but at 1st the insurance is going to opt for a professional clean 1st, and following a claim there will be good reason to load future policy's for clumsiness although one may call it misfortune.

Mungo76

For buildings it's a must, as pointed out above, it (accidental damage) covers a multitude of issues. Contents, not necessarily so, it depends on how much you value them and if your of the mindset that you would (and was going to) replace them yourself anyway.

mattk_180

Take a step back and consider if you would be able to/happy to replace everything around you out of your own pocket due to a spillage, inconsiderate guest, savage child.


If you are then don't bother, if you look and think "ooh I wouldn't like to buy that outright again" then get it.