Insuring a thatched property is different to other properties. As insurers class this type of property as non-standard construction meaning that most mainstream insurers will not offer cover for this type of property. Here at UK & Ireland Insurance we like to be different and are able to source specialist insurers for thatched roof homes as basic cover is the same as traditional household but will require some unique conditions due to the make-up of the building.

Why is thatched property insurance more expensive than standard household?
With a thatched property the thatched roofs are deemed as a fire hazard, as flames can spread quickly through dry thatch causing more extensive damage than for a regular property. Also, the rebuilding and repair costs for thatched roofs is often higher than for a regular home because of the need to hire specialist tradespeople to carry out the repair/replacement.

What is the most common cause of fires on a thatched property?
The most common cause of fires is the chimney and flue.
In order to help prevent loss you should ensure that the flue is properly checked and serviced regularly. In addition, smoked detectors and other fire prevention equipment can help to reduce risk of damage to your thatched property. Other steps you can take include checking the electrical wiring and installing a fireproof barrier between the thatch and the roof void or soaking the thatch in fire retardant sprays

What does thatch property insurance cover?
Thatched property insurance, including houses and cottages, will require specialist cover to ensure the thatching is correctly insured. As part of your policy, thatched roof insurance covers you against fire, storm and accidental damage. We also include cover against damages caused by flooding. Like general household insurance we can also include cover for your contents.

Advice on protecting your property from a claim
Fire:

• Do not allow:
  • Any bonfires/incinerators within 100 meters of your home
  • Old thatch or thatching to be burnt within 100 meters of your homes
  • Barbeques, fire-pits or chimneys to be burnt within 5 meters of your home
• Don’t use any naked flames or tool producing a naked flame within 5 meters of the thatched roof.
• Keep a fire extinguisher on each floor of your home and a fire blanket in your kitchen.
• Each floor has a minimum of 1 smoke alarm.
• Have your electrical wiring regularly checked. We would recommend that this is done at least every 10 years if not sooner.

Chimney

• You should ensure that your chimney is kept in a good state of repair
• Is professionally cleaned at least twice a year. We would recommend that you do this prior to the winter period (before the end of October) and again before the end of March as the winter period comes to an end.

Roof

• Have your thatched roof regularly inspected by a suitable qualified thatcher – we would recommend this happen at least once every 5 years.

Doors

• We would recommend that you consider installing the following security:

1. 5 lever mortice deadlocks or locks conforming to BS3621 on all final entrance and exit doors.
2. 5 lever mortice deadlocks or locks conforming to BS3621 or existing locks plus key operated security bolts at the top and bottom of other external doors.
3. 5 lever mortice deadlocks or locks conforming to BS3621 or existing locks plus key operated patio door locks mounted internally on the centre rail of sliding doors.

Windows

• Have key operated window locks to all accessible windows.

To get a quote for a Thatch property please either fill out the form below or call us on 0161 772 3394