What’s the Difference Between Contents and Buildings Insurance?

When it comes to home insurance, there are two main types: buildings insurance and contents insurance. They cover different things, so it’s important to know which one you need, or whether you need both.

You can buy them on their own or together in one combined policy. And if you rent out a property, you’ll need landlord insurance instead. In this guide, we explain the differences in simple terms so you can choose the right cover for your home.

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What is Buildings Insurance?

Buildings insurance covers the structure of your home. This means the parts that make up the building itself—like the walls, roof, floors, windows, and permanent fixtures such as fitted kitchens and bathrooms.

If your home is damaged by things like fire, flooding, storms, or vandalism, buildings insurance helps pay for the repairs. It usually also covers garages, sheds, and pipes.

Most mortgage lenders will require you to have buildings insurance as part of your loan agreement.

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What buildings insurance usually covers:

• Roof, walls, and floors
• Doors and windows
• Fitted kitchens and bathrooms
• Pipes, drains, and cables
• Garages, sheds, and fences

👉 Looking for buildings cover? Visit our Home Insurance page for tailored options.

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What is Contents Insurance?

Contents insurance covers your personal belongings—the things you’d normally take with you if you moved house.

It protects items like your furniture, clothes, electronics, and valuables from damage or theft. If these items are stolen, destroyed, or damaged, contents insurance can help cover the cost of replacing them. Contents cover is useful whether you own your home or rent it.

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What contents insurance usually covers:

• Furniture (like sofas, beds, and tables)
• Electricals (like TVs, laptops, and phones)
• Clothes and shoes
• Jewellery and watches
• Kitchen appliances and gadgets

💡 A simple rule: If you can pick it up and take it with you, it’s usually contents.

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Can You Get Both in One Policy?

Yes, you can. Many insurers offer combined home insurance policies that include both buildings and contents cover.

A combined policy is often easier to manage because you only have:

• One insurer
• One renewal date
• One payment plan

It can also work out cheaper than buying two separate policies.

Combined cover is a great option for homeowners who want to protect both the structure of their home and everything inside it.

📄 Contact us to ask about a combined policy that fits your needs.

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What About Landlord Insurance?

If you rent out your home, standard home insurance won’t give you the cover you need. That’s where landlord insurance comes in.

Landlord insurance is a specialist type of policy designed to protect rental properties. It covers the building and, if needed, any furniture or appliances you provide for tenants. It can also include optional extras like loss of rent or legal expenses.

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Landlord insurance can include:

• Buildings cover
• Contents (if the property is furnished)
• Liability cover (if a tenant is injured)
• Loss of rent (optional add-on)
• Legal expenses (optional add-on)

🏠 Need cover for your rental property? See our Landlord Insurance options.

📘 For more details on your responsibilities as a landlord, check the UK Government’s guide for landlords.

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What Cover Do You Need?

Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

• Homeowners: Usually need both buildings and contents insurance. A combined policy can be a simple option.
• Renters: Only need contents insurance since the landlord should cover the building.
• Landlords: Need landlord insurance, not a standard home policy.
• Flat owners: May already have buildings cover included in their lease or service charge—check with your freeholder or property manager.

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In Summary

• Buildings insurance covers your home’s structure—the walls, roof, and fixtures.
• Contents insurance covers your belongings—the things inside your home.
• You can buy them separately or in a combined policy.
• Landlords need specialist landlord insurance to protect rental properties.

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Need Help Choosing the Right Cover?

At Got You Covered, we specialise in home insurance tailored to your needs. Whether you live in a listed building, are at flood risk, or rent out a property—we can help you find the right protection with no confusing jargon.

👉 Get a quote today or speak to an expert to find the best cover for you.