Protecting exceptional homes: Why specialist insurance matters

Renovation and new-build projects have never been more ambitious. From striking contemporary designs using innovative materials to beautifully restored period properties that blend heritage with modern living, today’s homes are anything but standard.

We’re inspired by the creativity seen in programmes such as Grand Designs and George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces — but we also know there’s one vital element that rarely gets the attention it deserves: insurance.

Insurance that matches the quality of your home

At Macbeth, our Private Client team specialises in arranging comprehensive home insurance for distinctive and high-value properties. We understand that, when it comes to insuring your home, price should never be the driving factor. What matters is quality of cover, correct protection, and the confidence that your policy will respond fully if the worst happens.

Too often, insurance is treated as an afterthought during a renovation or build. Homeowners may rely on contractors’ cover, or simply continue with a policy taken out at exchange and reviewed only at completion. However, insuring a property — particularly one of non-standard or modern construction — is not a tick-box exercise.

Your home is your most valuable asset. It protects not only bricks and mortar, but your lifestyle, possessions and family.

Building or renovating? What you need to consider

Whether you are:

• Building a new home such as a Huf Haus or Baufritz
• Renovating or extending an existing property
• Restoring a listed or period home
• Creating a bespoke, architect-designed residence

There are critical insurance considerations that must be addressed to avoid the risks of underinsurance or non-disclosure — both of which can severely impact a claim.

Key areas include:

Buildings insurance

• Accurate rebuild costs, including professional fees, debris removal and outbuildings
• Correct declaration of the property’s construction and materials
• Consideration of specialist or non-standard building methods

Risk management & security

• Appropriate security measures and property protection
• Fire and smoke detection systems suited to the home

Contents insurance

• Realistic contents sums insured — not just furniture and electronics
• High-value items such as designer clothing, handbags, watches and jewellery
• Floor coverings, curtains and blinds, which are often underestimated
• Art, antiques and collections that may require specialist cover

Expert advice makes the difference

Underinsurance is far more common than many homeowners realise — and it often only comes to light at the point of a claim. Without expert guidance, even the most carefully designed home can be left inadequately protected.

Our role is to take the time to understand your property and your lifestyle, and to arrange insurance that truly reflects both — whether your home is a Grade II listed building or a cutting-edge modern construction.

Protect your home. Protect your world.

If you’d like to discuss your renovation or insurance requirements, please contact Mandy Everest at Mandy.everest@macbeths.co.uk or call us on 01189165480.