No, but it’s strongly recommended. If you own your home, you should have both. If you’re renting, buildings insurance is your landlord’s responsibility, but you should still take out contents insurance to protect your own possessions. Many insurers offer combined buildings and contents policies, which can be more convenient and sometimes cheaper than buying two separate policies.

Most buildings insurance policies cover damage caused by fire, flooding, storms, subsidence, burst pipes, falling trees, and vehicle impact. It usually also covers damage from vandalism and theft (for example, a broken door or window). Some policies include liability cover if someone is injured on your property. Always check your policy carefully, as exclusions vary between providers.

Standard contents policies often exclude general wear and tear, mechanical or electrical breakdown, and damage caused by pests. High-value items like jewellery or artwork may only be covered up to a set limit unless you specify them individually. Accidental damage is also frequently excluded from basic policies and must be added as an optional extra. Items left unattended in a car may not be covered either.

Accidental damage cover protects against unintentional, one-off incidents that cause sudden damage to your home or belongings, such as spilling wine on a carpet, putting a foot through the ceiling, or smashing a television. It’s usually an optional add-on to both buildings and contents policies. Without it, damage caused by accidents in the home is typically excluded from your standard policy.