Your home, and everything and everyone in it, is precious to you. Accidents happen when we least expect them, so how do you securely safeguard your home and its contents? Luckily, NZ home and contents insurance allows Kiwis to protect their properties and their assets at the same time. 

Plenty of things can happen. Weather damage, theft and even simple accidents can damage your home or possessions, which could end up leading to very expensive repairs. This is where insurance comes into play – a comprehensive insurance policy ensures you’re covered, so if something does happen, you can handle it with a level head and knowledge that you’ll be okay. 

What Is Home And Contents Insurance In NZ?

Essentially, this combines two types of insurance:

Home Insurance. Home insurance, or house insurance, protects the structure of your home – walls, roof, built-in fittings, etc. – against damage caused by natural disasters, fires, weather, accidents or vandalism. Home insurance is a must-have for property owners, especially for homes in areas prone to earthquakes or storms. Some policies may also cover retaining walls and recreational facilities like pools.

Generally, this insurance does not cover typical wear and tear, intentional damage (such as a home renovation you regret) or damage caused by reckless behaviour. 

Contents Insurance. While home insurance covers your structure, contents insurance covers everything inside. This can include furniture, electronics, clothing and other possessions, based on your policy. This insurance covers risks like theft, accidental damage, damage from natural disasters and loss. Your policy may also cover items taken outside of the home, such as laptops or phones. 

Contents insurance may also cover additional things that many people don’t realise – this includes food in your fridge or freezer, or accommodation for pets.

As always, be sure you understand exactly what your policy does and doesn’t cover before you make your final decision. Everyone has different needs, so finding a suitable home and contents insurance policy from an NZ insurer you trust is a must. Searching for the right policy may take longer than picking the cheapest or first one you see, but it’ll be worth it. 

Why Combine Home And Contents Insurance?

You may wonder, ‘Why should I choose home and contents insurance with one insurance company?’

The answer is very simple: having these types of insurance with one insurance company is the simpler, more convenient and more streamlined option.

• Convenience. Simply put, getting both policies with one insurer that covers both your home and its contents is more convenient.  You’ll save time and reduce stress.
• Clarity. Insurance can be confusing, so having to deal with too many insurance policies and too many terms and conditions can be overwhelming for anyone. Sticking to one insurer makes it easier to understand their policy’s conditions.
• Potential Savings. You may be able to save money by getting home and contents insurance from one NZ insurance company, some insurers may offer a discount for those who get both.
• Saving an Excess. If you did need to lodge a claim that involved both policies (a burglary for example with break in damage and stolen contents) most insurers will only apply one excess if both policies are with them.  Having two different insurers means two excesses. 

Of course, there are always ways you can make the most of your coverage. Consider:

• Working With A Professional Insurance Broker. It’s always best to work with someone who knows what they’re doing. At Baileys Insurance, we know every client is unique, so we take time to understand your situation and concerns before we begin exploring your options. We can help you understand your opportunities and guide you through the process. 
• Choosing A Reliable NZ Insurer. Always choose an insurer you trust. We work with top New Zealand insurers like Chubb Insurance Ltd, Ando Insurance Ltd and Vero Insurance NZ Ltd, among others. 
• Keeping Inventory Of Your Valuables And Documenting Your Property. Make it a habit to routinely go through your possessions and property to stay up-to-date with what you have. You can take photos and keep receipts when necessary. 
• Updating Your Cover When You Make New Purchases Or Changes. Review your NZ home and contents insurance policy with us if you make any major changes, such as renovating your home or buying new valuables.  
• Avoiding Underinsurance. Underinsuring your property and possessions is common, and there are many claimable or coverable items that you may not be aware of. We help avoid this by ensuring your coverage reflects your needs. We welcome you to ask about items you want to insure.

Covering Your House And Belongings With Baileys Insurance

At Baileys Insurance, we do everything we can to streamline the process while making sure you get exactly what you need. Read more about NZ home and contents insurance on our website. Or, you can get in touch with our team by calling 0800-898585 or messaging us.

If you’re ready to start right away, you can easily request a quote online.

Protect what’s important to you – work with Baileys Insurance today.