Frequently Asked Questions

A typical self-build project requires several types of insurance at different stages. These may include site insurance, public liability cover, contract works insurance, and a structural warranty. If you’re managing trades directly, employers' liability insurance may also be legally required. The earlier you set up cover—ideally before groundworks begin—the better protected you’ll be.

Standard home insurance policies rarely cover structural renovations or major works. If you’re planning extensions, conversions, or moving out during the project, you must inform your insurer. They may require a renovation extension or a separate policy altogether. Failing to notify them can result in a void policy and rejected claims 

A structural warranty (or latent defects insurance) provides long-term protection—usually 10 or 12 years—against major structural issues caused by poor workmanship, design flaws, or materials failure. It’s often required by lenders and future buyers for newly built or heavily renovated properties. Applying before works begin ensures you get the best terms and full coverage.

As a landlord, you’ll need specialist landlord insurance rather than standard home insurance. Core covers include buildings and contents (if furnished), public liability, loss of rent, and possibly malicious damage by tenants. You may also need legal expenses cover for disputes or evictions. Different policies apply depending on whether the property is let, short-let (e.g. Airbnb), or HMO.

Responsibility depends on who is managing the project. If you’ve appointed a main contractor, they typically carry the liability (if insured). However, if you’re managing individual trades, or own the land, you may be liable. Public liability insurance protects you financially in the event of third-party injury or property damage.

Yes. If your home is unoccupied for more than 30 days during a renovation or while awaiting tenants, standard home or landlord insurance may not apply. You’ll likely need unoccupied property insurance to stay protected against risks like fire, flood, and vandalism.

Insurance should be arranged before work begins. Site insurance and public liability should be in place before materials or trades arrive. Structural warranties must be applied for early, ideally before groundworks begin, to allow staged inspections. Delaying insurance can increase costs and limit your protection.

It’s not a legal requirement for private homeowners, but it is strongly recommended for anyone undertaking a project that involves the public or third-party access. Builders and trades must carry it as standard. If you’re managing your own build or renovation, it's wise to have public liability cover in place to protect against costly claims.

Contract works insurance protects the physical work in progress, as well as building materials and equipment, during construction. It covers events like fire, flood, theft, or accidental damage before the project is completed. It’s typically held by the contractor, but if you’re managing the works directly, you may need to take out your own policy.

Yes. HelpMe-InsureIt offers comparison tools tailored to your project type—whether you’re a self-builder, renovator, or landlord. Our platform helps you assess key features like cover level, exclusions, excess, and premium costs. We also work with vetted, FCA-authorised providers to ensure quality and peace of mind.