Got questions about house insurance? You're not alone. With rising premiums and complex policies, many Kiwis are looking for answers. We've rounded up the most common questions our Quashed customers ask about house insurance and given you the straight facts. From working out if you're properly covered to finding ways to trim those premiums without cutting corners, we've got your back. No jargon, just clear answers to help you make smart decisions about protecting your home.
1. What’s the best house insurance in NZ?
The “best” house insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all—it depends on your needs. Are you looking for maximum cover for peace of mind? Or are you keen on something affordable that covers the essentials?
That’s where Quashed comes in. With real-time comparisons, you get up-to-date information on different providers and policies at your fingertips. No more outdated quotes or guesswork. We help you evaluate what’s best for you based on your budget, lifestyle, and home.
Why Quashed? With real-time data, tailored results, and an easy-to-use platform, we make insurance simple. Find out more in our blog to see how we stack up.
2. Who has the cheapest house insurance in NZ?
It’s tempting to go for the cheapest policy, but remember: you get what you pay for. Lower premiums might mean higher excess fees or limited coverage when it really matters.
Tip: Use Quashed to compare quotes in minutes. You might find a policy that’s affordable while covering your key risks. Plus, check out our blog on budget hacks for house insurance to stretch your dollar further.
3. How do renovations affect house insurance?
Did you know renovations like adding a deck or upgrading your kitchen may impact the cost of your insurance? A bigger, flasher home often means higher premiums. On the flip side, adding safety features (like smoke alarms) might bring your costs down.
Tip: Always update your insurer about your renovations—failing to do so could leave you underinsured!
For more on this, head to our blog about home upgrades and their impact on insurance premiums.
4. How much should I insure my home for?
It’s crucial to get your “sum insured” amount right. This is the maximum amount your insurer will pay if your home is a total loss. Too low, and you’ll be out of pocket. Too high, and you’re overpaying for premiums.
Use a free tool like the Cordell Sum Sure Calculator or consult a professional—such as a registered valuer or quantity surveyor—to determine your home’s replacement cost. Read our blog for more information.
5. How do I compare house insurance in NZ?
Let’s talk about the typical process:
You visit multiple insurance provider websites.
You spend ages digging into policy details.
You write everything down (or copy and paste it into a spreadsheet).
You attempt to compare policies line by line.
It’s time-consuming and honestly, a bit of a headache. That’s where Quashed steps in. Instead of surfing multiple sites and spending hours sorting through options, we simplify the entire process. With real-time comparisons, you can see quotes from insurance providers in one place. It’s fast, simple, and hassle-free.
Ready to simplify house insurance? Discover expert tips and tricks for comparing quotes quickly and confidently. Check out our blog on how to compare house insurance quotes in NZ.
6. What does house insurance cover?
Most house insurance policies cover:
Natural disasters (earthquakes, floods, storms)
Accidental damage (fire, burst pipes)
Theft or vandalism
Some exclusions, like wear and tear, typically apply. For older homes, specific risks—such as structural issues or outdated wiring—might impact your cover. Learn more about these considerations and how to choose the right policy in our blog.
Be the boss of your house insurance!
Let’s face it—nobody enjoys reading insurance fine print. That’s where Quashed steps in.
Our platform:
Provides real-time comparisons to help you explore available options.
Shows up-to-date quotes from insurance providers.
Lets you evaluate policies side-by-side with ease.
Saves you hours of effort, so you can focus on what really matters.
Further reading
Check out these insightful reads:
House Insurance Guide: A comprehensive look at your coverage options.
Why House Insurance Premiums Are Rising: Understand what’s driving costs and how to manage them.
How to Compare House Insurance Quotes: Tips to find the right cover for your home.
Climate Change & House Insurance: How climate risks are affecting insurance costs in NZ.
Insurance for Older Homes & High-Risk Properties: Special considerations for unique properties.
FAQs
How do I determine the correct rebuild value for my house insurance?
The correct rebuild value should cover the full cost of rebuilding your home, including materials, labour, and compliance costs—but not the land value.
To estimate your home’s rebuild cost:
Use an online rebuild calculator (e.g., Cordell Sum Sure) for an estimate.
Check local building costs and in flation trends.
For high-value or unique homes, consider a professional valuation from a quantity surveyor..
Tip: Regularly update your sum insured to keep pace with rising costs. Online calculators provide estimates only and should not replace expert advice.
Can I get house insurance without exclusions in New Zealand?
No house insurance policy is completely exclusion-free, but you can reduce gaps in coverage by:
Comparing policies to find one with fewer exclusions
Adding optional extras, like excess-free glass cover or flood protection.
Reading the policy wording carefully and discussing coverage with your insurer.
Tip: Understanding what’s not covered helps you avoid unexpected costs.
How can I find affordable house insurance in high-risk areas like Wellington or Christchurch?
House insurance in high-risk areas like Wellington and Christchurch costs more due to seismic risks and global reinsurance pricing, but you can reduce premiums by:
Choosing a higher excess to lower your premium.
Bundling house and contents insurance for discounts.
Strengthening your home against earthquakes (e.g., securing foundations).
Comparing insurers annually—pricing varies.
Tip: Some government-backed schemes offer options for high-risk homes. It’s worth checking if you’re eligible.
What should I do if my house insurance premium increases significantly?
If your house insurance premium rises sharply, take these steps:
Check if your sum insured reflects actual rebuild costs
—reducing it too much can leave you underinsured.
Increase your excess to lower your premium.
Compare multiple insurers, as pricing varies.
Ask about discounts for security upgrades or bundling policies.
Tip: Not sure what changes to make? An insurance broker can help you find the best option.
How do previous claims on a property affect my house insurance?
A property’s claims history can affect premiums or limit coverage, especially if it has previous flood, earthquake, or fire damage claims. Insurers may:
Increase premiums due to higher risk.
Exclude certain risks, such as denying future flood coverage.
Require safety measures before approving a policy.
Buying a home? Ask the seller for a claims history report and check with insurers about potential restrictions.
Note: Privacy laws apply, so insurers may only provide limited information.
This article provides general information only and does not constitute insurance or financial advice. Insurance policies vary between providers, and you should check with your insurer or a licensed adviser for guidance specific to your situation. For full details, refer to Quashed’s terms and conditions.
