Updating your insurance when you move
A move means updating your address, living space and insured location before problems arise. What that means for your contents, liability and buildings cover.
Report your new address in good time. Check your living space, insured location, overlap periods and any new risks. Owning rather than renting fundamentally changes what cover you need.
The moving checklist
Inform your insurers early and document valuable belongings. For an owner-occupied property, buildings insurance and natural hazards cover should be part of your review.
- New address and move-in date
- Living space and value of contents
- Damage to rented property and keys
- Building and natural hazard risks if you own
Other household contracts
A move is also a sensible time to look at internet, electricity and gas. These offers remain separate portals and are only linked where relevant.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to tell my insurer that I am moving?
Yes, and in good time. For household contents and liability insurance, your address is not a formality but part of the risk assessment: living space, postcode and type of building all help determine the premium. If you forget to report the move, you risk disputes about what was actually insured if you make a claim.
Are my belongings insured during the move?
Generally yes – most policies cover both homes for a transitional period, typically a few months. That does not automatically cover the transport itself, though: if in doubt, the removal company is responsible for damage caused while carrying and driving. Check both points in your policy terms before a box gets dropped.
Can I use the move to switch provider?
Often yes, but not always automatically. Some contracts provide a special right of cancellation when you move, while others simply adjust the premium. Check your terms and only cancel once your new cover has been confirmed in writing – a gap between two policies is the most expensive mistake you can make here.
Selected sources
Your next steps
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