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Why Use QuoteSearcher for Non-Standard Property Insurance?

Properties built using unusual materials or construction methods can be more difficult to insure through standard home insurance policies. Insurers may assess these buildings differently due to potential rebuild costs, maintenance requirements, or specialist repair work.

QuoteSearcher introduces property owners to brokers who regularly arrange insurance for non-standard properties. By completing a short form on our site, you can be connected with brokers who will review the construction type, age of the building and any specialist features before outlining suitable insurance options.

This approach lets you explore cover through brokers experienced in non-standard property risks, without needing to contact multiple insurers individually.

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What Is Non-Standard Property Insurance?

A property is generally considered non-standard when it’s built using materials or methods that differ from conventional brick walls and tiled roofs.

This may include properties with unusual structural elements, heritage features or specialist roofing materials. Because repairs and rebuilds may require specialist trades or materials, insurers often assess these buildings differently from standard homes.

Non-Standard Property Insurance Policy Features

Cover will vary depending on the property and insurer, but policies may include the following:

Building and Contents Cover

Protection for the structure of the property as well as internal fixtures, fittings and contents following insured events such as fire, flooding or storm damage. Find out more about Building and Contents Cover.

Structural Damage Cover

May include protection for issues such as subsidence, landslip or ground heave, depending on policy terms. Subsidence in particular can affect how insurers price and structure a policy, since it often involves ongoing monitoring or the property having been previously underpinned.

Damage from Fire, Weather or Vandalism

Cover for damage caused by fire, extreme weather, storms, or malicious acts.

Liability Cover

Property owners’ liability cover may assist with legal costs and compensation if a third party suffers injury or property damage connected to the property.

Types of Non-Standard Property Construction

Certain building methods are commonly classified as non-standard by insurers.

Non-Combustible Pre-Fabricated Homes

Often referred to as prefabricated or “prefab” properties, these homes are manufactured in sections off-site and assembled on location. While modern prefabricated homes can be large and complex structures, earlier examples may require specialist insurance due to their construction methods and materials.

Steel-Framed Properties

Steel frames offer strong structural support and are resistant to rot or decay. However, older steel-framed properties may contain materials such as asbestos insulation, which insurers may need to take into account when assessing risk.

Timber-Framed Properties

Timber-framed homes use a structural wooden frame rather than a solid brick internal structure. External walls may be finished with brick, stone, render or timber cladding, giving the appearance of a conventional home.

Wattle and Daub Construction

One of the oldest known building techniques, wattle and daub uses a timber framework filled with a mixture of mud, straw and other natural materials. Because repairs often require specialist methods and materials, insurance for these buildings is usually arranged through specialist brokers.

Underpinned Properties

A property that has previously subsided and been underpinned to stabilise its foundations is generally treated as non-standard, even once repairs are complete. Insurers may ask for details of the underpinning work and any warranties or guarantees provided at the time, and can take a more specialist approach to pricing and terms as a result.

Non-Standard Roofing Types

Roof construction can also affect how insurers assess a property.

Flat Roofs

Flat roofs can be more prone to water pooling and leaks if not maintained regularly. Insurers may ask about inspection schedules and roofing materials before offering cover.

Shingle Roofs

Shingle roofs use overlapping rectangular tiles or panels that create a weather-resistant surface. Older properties may use copper or lead underlays, while modern installations often use synthetic materials.

Illustration of a thatched roof property

Thatched Roofs

Thatched roofs are constructed using layers of dried vegetation such as straw, reed or heather. Because thatch presents a higher fire risk than conventional roofing materials, insurers often require specialist thatched property policies.

Listed Buildings and Heritage Properties

A listed building is one that appears on the UK Statutory List of Buildings of Architectural or Historic Interest. These properties are legally protected, and repairs or alterations usually require specific permissions.

Listed buildings are classified into three main categories:

Grade I: buildings of exceptional historical or architectural importance
Grade II*: particularly important buildings of more than special interest
Grade II: buildings of special interest that should be preserved

Because repairs must often use traditional materials and specialist craftsmanship, rebuild costs for listed properties can be significantly higher than for standard buildings.

Non-Standard Properties and Landlords

If you’re insuring a non-standard property as a rental rather than your own home, this cover can usually be arranged alongside, or as part of, a landlord insurance policy. Brokers experienced in non-standard risk can talk you through how construction type, listed status or roofing material might affect a landlord policy specifically. Find out more about Landlord Insurance.

Properties that remain unoccupied for long periods may need separate unoccupied property insurance, while second homes may be better suited to holiday home insurance, depending on how the property is used.

Other Factors That Can Affect Non-Standard Property Insurance

Several factors may influence the availability and cost of insurance for non-standard properties:

Unusual construction materials
Specialist roofing types
Property age
Historic or listed building status
High rebuild costs
Environmental risks such as flooding, subsidence or previous underpinning

Properties that remain unoccupied for long periods may require separate unoccupied property insurance, while second homes or rental properties may need holiday home insurance or landlord insurance depending on how they are used.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT NON STANDARD PROPERTY INSURANCE

- What is non-standard property insurance?
  Non-standard property insurance is designed for properties that fall outside what insurers consider “standard construction” or risk. This can include unusual building materials, listed buildings, thatched roofs, properties in flood-risk areas, or homes with a history of subsidence. Brokers can help explain where standard home insurance may not be suitable.
- Why would a property be classed as non-standard?
  A property may be considered non-standard due to its construction type, age, location, or risk profile. Examples include timber-framed homes, steel-framed properties, thatched roofs, listed buildings, or properties affected by subsidence or flooding. Brokers will assess these factors when discussing suitable cover.
- Do I need non-standard property insurance?
  If your property does not meet typical construction or risk criteria, standard home insurance may not provide adequate cover. In these cases, brokers can assist with arranging a specialist policy that reflects the specific risks associated with your property.
- What does non-standard property insurance cover?
  Cover will vary depending on the insurer, but policies may include buildings and contents insurance, protection against structural damage such as subsidence, and liability cover. Additional options may be available depending on the type of property and how it is used.
- Can I insure a listed building?
  Listed buildings can usually be insured through specialist providers. Brokers will typically consider the grade of listing, materials used, and any restrictions on repairs or alterations when arranging cover.
- Can I get cover for a thatched or flat roof property?
  Yes, although these are often considered higher risk due to factors such as fire exposure or potential for leaks. Brokers can help with what information insurers require and what conditions may apply to the policy.
- Will subsidence or flood risk affect my insurance?
  Properties in areas prone to subsidence or flooding are often assessed differently by insurers. Brokers can help identify insurers willing to provide cover and explain any exclusions, excesses, or conditions that may apply.
- What affects the cost of non-standard property insurance?
  Premiums are typically influenced by the type of construction, rebuild cost, location, claims history, and the specific risks involved. More unusual or higher-risk properties may require specialist underwriting, which can affect pricing and available cover.
- How is the rebuild cost calculated for non-standard properties?
  Rebuild costs are often higher for non-standard properties due to specialist materials, labour, or heritage requirements. Brokers may recommend a professional valuation to ensure the property is insured for the correct amount.
- Why use a broker for non-standard property insurance?
  Non-standard properties often fall outside standard insurer criteria. Brokers can access specialist insurers, explain policy differences, and help arrange cover that reflects the specific risks of your property.

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What Is Non-Standard Property Insurance?