What to do about contents insurance when you move
If you have contents insurance, tell your insurer your new address before you move. If you don't, moving is a good time to decide whether you want it.
- When
- 1 to 2 weeks before you move
- How long
- About 20 minutes
- Cost
- Your price may change with the new address
What you'll need
- Your policy number
- Your new address and move date
- A rough value for what you own
What to do
Tell your insurer the date you move
Ask them to move the policy to the new address from that day.
Ask what's covered during the move
Some policies cover your things while a removal firm is moving them and some don't. If you're moving them yourself, ask about that specifically.
Check the amount you're covered for
A move is when people notice how much they own. If the total has grown, raise the cover.
Renting? Read your tenancy agreement
Your landlord's insurance covers the building, not your things.
If you skip this
If your insurer doesn't know you've moved, your things may not be covered on the day or at your new address.
Questions people ask
- Is contents insurance a legal requirement?
- No. It's your choice. It pays to replace your things after a theft, fire or flood.
- I'm buying. What about buildings insurance?
- That's separate. Mortgage lenders usually expect buildings insurance to be in place from the day you exchange contracts, so ask your solicitor when yours needs to start.
This is one job. There are about twenty more.
Tell us when and where you're moving and get the full list, in the order to do it.
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