Buildings insurance is designed to give you financial protection against damage to the structure and fabric of your home. This usually includes any external parts of the property such as your shed, garage, conservatory or greenhouse.

Your buildings insurance allows for the provision of funds to rebuild your home in the event of it being totally destroyed or damaged to the extent that complete rebuilding is the only way to make it inhabitable. It also covers you against damage caused by events that are beyond your control. This usually includes:

• storm and flood damage
• burst pipes and other incidents of water leakage
• fire, smoke and explosions
• subsidence
• vandalism or third party damage

It is important to note that different policies can provide cover for differing events. Never take anything for granted and always read the small print. If you feel unsure about understanding the terms, always ask the insurer directly or ask your solicitor to have a look at the policy and explain it to you.

Aside from the basic structure of the house, the policy should cover your windows, roofing, kitchen and bathroom, floors, electrical wiring and plumbing against damage caused by one of the listed events. Fittings and furnishings are usually covered under your contents insurance.