Is Park Home Insurance the same as bricks and mortar?
Choosing park home insurance can feel a bit confusing, but it helps to focus on the unique requirements of park homes. These properties have distinct characteristics that set them apart from standard homes, so it’s crucial to find an insurance provider with policies specifically tailored to park homes.
Here’s a guide on how to choose the best park home insurance:
1. Look for Specialist Providers
Standard home insurance doesn’t cover the specific needs of park homes. Search for insurance providers who specialise in park home insurance. They typically offer coverage tailored to the structure and risks associated with park homes, like accidental damage to utilities, mobile features, and seasonal occupancy.
2. Check Coverage for Replacement Value
Ensure that the policy provides new-for-old replacement if your park home is damaged beyond repair. This means the insurer will replace your home with a new one of similar size and specification rather than compensating based on what the home is worth at the time of the loss.
3. Contents Coverage
Make sure the policy covers the contents inside your home, such as furniture, appliances, and personal belongings. Look for coverage that’s comprehensive and includes accidental damage, fire, theft, and weather damage.
If you have high-value items, check if they require additional coverage, and ask about coverage limits on individual items.
4. Weather-Related and Accidental Damage Protection
Park homes are often more vulnerable to weather-related damage than brick-and-mortar homes. Ensure that the policy covers events like storms, floods, and frost damage.
Confirm whether accidental damage coverage is included, as it can help cover repairs for unintentional incidents like plumbing mishaps or accidental structural damage.
5. Public Liability Insurance
Public liability insurance is especially important if guests visit your park home. This covers legal and medical expenses if someone is injured on your property or if you accidentally damage someone else’s property. Typically most sites require £5,000,000 public liability cover.
6. Emergency Accommodation Costs
In case your park home becomes uninhabitable, some policies cover alternative accommodation costs. Check if the policy includes temporary accommodation for you and your family until repairs are made or a replacement home is provided.
7. Seasonal and Occupancy Clauses
If you only occupy the park home seasonally, make sure the policy covers your home during the periods when it’s unoccupied. Some insurers require that the home isn’t left vacant for long stretches or require additional security measures during unoccupied months.
8. Site Requirements and Liability
Many park homes are on rented land in holiday parks, which might have specific insurance requirements. Ensure your policy aligns with your site owner’s requirements, including any liability coverage for damages that might affect the park’s infrastructure.
9. Check the Policy Exclusions
Carefully read the exclusions to understand what’s not covered, such as damage from vermin or certain types of wear and tear. Make sure these exclusions don’t leave you exposed to likely risks.
10. Compare Quotes and Policy Features
Obtain multiple quotes and compare the coverage details, premiums, and deductible amounts. Use a park home insurance comparison site if available, or ask providers directly for a detailed quote.
11. Review Customer Service and Claims Process
Check reviews and ratings of the insurance company’s customer service and claims process. Look for insurers with a reputation for efficient claims handling, as this can make a huge difference during stressful times.
12. Optional Add-Ons
Consider optional add-ons that may be relevant to your needs, such as legal expenses coverage, key replacement, and extended coverage for outdoor furniture or equipment, if your park home has outdoor living spaces.
Summary: When choosing park home insurance, prioritise policies from specialists, ensure replacement value coverage, and check for critical protections such as weather damage, liability, and temporary accommodations. Compare quotes and review the fine print on exclusions to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Taking these steps will help you find a policy that balances cost with comprehensive protection.