Insurance based on Construction of Thatched Properties.
Thatch insurance and construction is a topic on which we are often contacted. Insurance companies are interested in the construction of your properties and much of this is associated, we understand, with the rebuild valuations. Many thatched properties are also listed so there is the added situation of different and aged construction materials – many of which seem to last better (if properly maintained) than there more modern counterparts! What is the lifespan of a modern constructed home in the 2020s we wonder? Your roof material is also a question often asked.
As with all properties, the lifespan of your thatched one is influenced by a variety of factors and the construction materials plays a large part.
Lifespan can also be related to the design, any construction standards, maintenance and also environmental conditions, so its not all about the construction. Proximity to sea or heavily wooded areas has also been mentioned as a factor affecting longevity.
The construction of a property is therefore of interest to your insurers.
Thatch Construction Variance
The construction of your property can therefore be varied depending on age, proximity to building materials, location, aspect and even the size.
Here are some useful words from our specialist thatch insurers on the topic of thatch insurance and construction.
Construction and Thatch Insurance –
Comment from some of our Specialist Insurers
Lloyd & Whyte
“Thatched homes are highly sought-after, but traditional building methods often need to be used to preserve their unique character and for ongoing maintenance.
Enlisting the help of specialist tradespeople and sourcing authentic materials can cost more than for standard properties, which can increase your home’s rebuild value. That’s why arranging thatched home insurance through a specialist company, can safeguard your home from being underinsured.
Thatched property insurance policies often include fire safety requirements, chimney inspections, and cover for rebuilding, helping protect your historical home.”
Brown & Brown
“With thatched properties, it can be difficult to find the right material to use for your roof. There are a wide variety of materials that you can use with different qualities, such as Devon reed, water reed, longstraw, and more. If your property is based in a conservation area, you may have to conform to using specific materials too.
In this case, it would be best to reach out to a qualified Thatcher, who specialises in the maintenance and construction of thatched roofs. They will be able to provide you with the appropriate advice for your current situation.”
Certis Insurance Brokers
“This is an area which many people are not aware off and should make sure they hold in their possession.
- What conditions is your contractor/ thatcher working under- Verbal /JCT.
- Do you have copy of his insurance.
- Does the construction work exceed the stated limit on your policy and can they repair specialist types of materials.
- Did you know contractors are excluded on policies (see policy terms).
- Have you checked similar work completed on listed home using specialist materials (lath/plaster).
- Specialist areas of construction materials require specialist parties to complete so it’s not just the price.
- Faulty workmanship isn’t covered.”
Thatch Cover
Thatched homes are wonderfully individual, often built from traditional materials e.g. timber, cob, stone, or brick, with roofs of water reed, wheat reed, or long straw. Each construction type has its own characteristics – some more resilient to weather, others more susceptible to fire – which insurers consider when determining eligibility and premium loadings. It’s also important to include details of any outbuildings, as their construction can significantly affect the overall risk. Roofs made from materials such as tin or asbestos can sometimes present additional challenges for insurance. Ultimately, it’s all about finding the right fit for your unique home.
Thatch Assist
The wall construction of your thatch also influences your insurance premium:
- Standard Materials: Walls built from materials including stone, brick, or concrete block offer a strong barrier against external perils and internal fire and are rated favourably.
- Non-Standard or traditional walls such as cob, flint, wattle and daub, or solid timber frames are often less resistant to fire, damp and flood, they can also be more vulnerable to structural issues. Specialist builders and materials are required for repair. elevated cost and complexity of sourcing, labour, and craftsmanship result in a higher rebuild value and therefore ultimately influence insurance premiums.
Conclusion
As previously mentioned, thatch insurers ask a lot of questions. These questions are always for a valid reason. Construction, especially if a listed property, is important as any claims would require it to be repaired in the same material.
Giving relevant and correct information is imperative.
Many thanks to our Insurance Associates for their useful contributions to this interesting article. You can find them by clicking on their links above or on our bespoke Thatch Directory under the insurance category.