6 Things Most Homeowners Forget To Insure

Most homeowners believe their insurance covers everything important, but key items and scenarios are often left out. Failing to consider these details can result in unexpected costs following an emergency.

From home office gear to high-value jewellery, there are several assets and expenses you might miss. By reviewing your policy for these six often forgotten areas, you can ensure your home and belongings are fully protected, no matter what life brings.

Top 6 Overlooked Items Every Homeowner Should Insure for Complete Protection

Having the right home insurance means more than just basic protection. It gives you true peace of mind, knowing your home and valuables are secure against life’s surprises.

By making sure your home insurance includes these often-overlooked items, you can feel confident that your policy supports you in every situation, not just the obvious ones.

1.    Home Office Equipment

With more people working from home, home office setups have become essential. Computers, monitors, printers, ergonomic chairs, and specialist equipment can add up to a significant sum. Many standard home insurance policies offer only limited protection for business-related items. Sometimes, these are excluded completely.

Why it Matters?

A burglary, fire, or accident could leave you having to replace all your work tools out of your pocket.

What you Should do?

Ask your insurer about extending your policy or adding a specific rider for home office equipment. If you run a home-based business, you might also need business insurance. Keep receipts and maintain an updated inventory of all work-related assets.

2.    Additional Living Expenses During Repairs or Disasters

A disaster can sometimes make your home uninhabitable for days or even months. You may need to rent a place, pay for storage, or cover extra living costs. Many homeowners are shocked to learn that standard home insurance provides limited or no help for these additional living expenses.

Why it Matters?

Events like fires, floods, or major repairs can temporarily force you out of your home. Without coverage, you might pay for hotels, temporary rentals, or storage out of your pocket.

What you Should do?

Check if your policy includes an “Additional Living Expense” cover. Many homeowners do not realise that these costs can add up quickly when a disaster strikes. Expenses for temporary accommodation, storage, and daily living can put a heavy toll on your budget.

3.    High-Value Jewellery and Watches

Most home contents policies cap jewellery coverage at a modest amount. If you have an engagement ring, luxury watch, or heirloom necklace, a standard policy payout might not come close to their true value.

Why it Matters?

Jewellery is both easy to lose and often targeted by thieves. Sub-limits on standard policies often fail to match the replacement cost for high-value or sentimental items.

What you Should do?

Get your most valuable pieces appraised. Schedule them specifically on your policy, which is also known as a valuables add-on. This ensures they are covered for their full value if lost, stolen, or damaged.

4.    Outbuildings, Sheds, and Garages

Detached structures, such as sheds, garages, greenhouses, or workshops, can house expensive items. These might include tools, bicycles, appliances, or even vehicles. Many policies offer only basic “other structures” coverage. Some require you to list these buildings separately.

Why it Matters?

Damage or theft can result in a hefty loss, especially if you store valuable tools, garden equipment, or a second vehicle.

What you Should do?

Review the “outbuildings” or “other structures” section of your insurance. If your coverage is too low or excludes certain buildings, consider updating your policy or adding specific riders for extra protection.

5.    Collections and Antiques

From rare books and coins to sports memorabilia and artwork, collections often grow in value over time. Many homeowners do not realise that standard contents insurance has strict sub-limits or even outright exclusions for collectibles and antiques.

Why it Matters?

A fire, burglary, or water damage event could wipe out a valuable collection. You might receive little compensation if you have not declared its worth.

What you Should do?

Have your collections professionally appraised. Speak to your insurer about collectibles coverage or a valuables rider. Keep documentation, photographs, and receipts for an easier claims process.

6.    Sewer Backup and Water Damage

Many basic home insurance plans do not automatically include coverage for sewer backup, sump pump failure, or water seepage. Yet, these events are surprisingly common and expensive to fix.

Why it Matters?

Water damage is one of the costliest types of home repairs. Without the right add-on, claims for ruined basements, destroyed floors, or damaged belongings might be denied.

What you Should do?

Ask your insurer for a sewer backup or comprehensive water damage endorsement. If you live in a flood-prone area, consider purchasing separate insurance for complete peace of mind.

Overlooking these commonly forgotten items in your policy can turn an emergency into a long-term financial setback. Take time to review your home insurance coverage. Discuss any gaps with your provider, and update your policy as needed.

By protecting these important areas, you can face the future with confidence. Your home and all its treasures will be truly secure, no matter what life brings your way.