What Could Invalidate Your Home Insurance?
Overlooked Triggers That Can Void Your Cover — And How to Guard Against Them
What Could Invalidate Your Home Insurance?
Insurance is one of those things we often take for granted, but when the worst happens... whether it's a fire, theft, flood, or accident, we want to be certain our insurers will pay.
Most claims are declined not because of obscure clauses, but because of oversights or mistakes that homeowners are unaware could invalidate their insurance.
These are 12 issues that could leave your home insurance void, and how to fix them.
1. Not declaring building or home improvement work
It is important to tell your insurer before starting any work on a home extension, converting a loft, or knocking down internal walls.
Fire, floods, and structural problems can occur during or after renovations, and your insurance may not cover these incidents if your insurer is not notified.
Building work is one of the top reasons why policies can be canceled, so inform your insurer!
2. Leaving your home unoccupied for too long
Standard policies only cover unoccupied houses for 30 days (some extend that to 60 days). In the event that you are away for longer, whether on an extended holiday, on a work placement, or in the hospital, you should let your insurer know.
Burglaries, vandalism, and burst pipes are more likely to occur in empty homes during the winter months. Without notice, you could be uninsured.
3. Ignoring maintenance
A policy won't cover damage caused by poor maintenance. Untreated damp, blocked gutters, or leaking roofs can all be excluded from coverage.
It is the homeowner's responsibility to take all practical and reasonable measures to ensure the security of their property. Keep your property maintained and in good condition to avoid having a claim denied.
4. Operating a business from home without declaring it
Even though working remotely is generally covered, operating a business with stock, clients, or equipment can change your risk profile.
Whether you run a salon, childminding service, or retail business from home, you'll need specific insurance. The insurer may invalidate your policy if you fail to notify them.
5. Not securing your home properly
It may be considered negligence by an insurer if doors and windows aren't locked, alarms aren't activated, or locks aren't working properly.
Theft claims can also be void if keys are left in obvious places (such as under the doormat).
6. Deliberate Damage
Intentional damage caused by the homeowner or household members is not covered by insurance. Vandalism, malicious damage, and deliberate breakage fall into this category.
7. Falsifying or omitting information
In order to obtain or renew a policy, you must provide accurate information about your property, its use, and your history.
There is a possibility that your insurance could be invalidated if you fail to mention previous claims, who lives in the property, or material risks.
8. Misvaluation of contents or property
Underestimating rebuild costs could result in underinsurance, meaning your insurer may only pay a portion of your claim.
Increasing values unnecessarily may result in higher premiums or raise suspicions about fraud. Valuations must be honest.
9. Renting or subletting without informing your insurer
A short-term rental (such as Airbnb) or taking in a lodger can change the risk profile of your home. It is possible that your policy will be void if your insurer is not aware.
10. Failing to update the policy when circumstances change
Changing circumstances such as the arrival of a new partner, the purchase of expensive jewellery, or the addition of a new family member can all have an impact on your policy.
You may not be covered for certain losses if you don't update your insurer.
11. Delay in reporting claims or incidents
The majority of insurers require quick reporting of claims or incidents (especially theft, burglary, or structural damage).
Rejection can be caused by delays or incomplete evidence (such as photos or police reports).
12. Hiring unqualified contractors or performing illegal work
A non-certified electrician or plumber, or work carried out without the necessary permits, may result in your insurer rejecting your claim.
Ensure that tradespeople are appropriately accredited before hiring them.
Don’t Forget
Policies vary in wording: always read them carefully.
Some exclusions are "conditions precedent," meaning failure to comply makes coverage invalid.
Even if a policy isn't canceled entirely, claims can be reduced proportionately.
All this being said, invalidations can be clearly avoided by being honest and communicating.
To make sure your policy is suitable for your needs, keep your insurer informed, maintain your home, and review it regularly.
