Insurance for older/complicated property

[plipplops]

We moved a year ago into a house where part of it was built 1860s, with all sorts of additions over the years - we're not 100% sure what all the walls are made of (externally it's some stone, some render). There's a 2 storey garage separate from the house, and an additional outbuilding. Lots of trees pretty close to the house. About 0.4 acres, oil heating and septic tank for sewage. What I'm trying to say is it's way more complicated than our previous new build!

Just before we moved I got insurance through a comparison website with RAC (we were with Direct Line before and their quote for the new house was crazy).

We had an issue with a leak and dealing with the RAC was a bit rubbish, I don't feel at all secure that they'd look after us if anything happened to the house.

I want a new insurer who'll properly ask all the questions to make sure we're properly covered for anything that might go wrong (and accept this is going to come at a price). Can anyone recommend a provider please?

I'm about to accept a quote from HomeProtect, who specialise in properties with "issues". They're underwritten by AXA, who were my insurer at another property for many years. I've never had to make a claim though, which is the point you find out if your insurer's any good!

Try NFU or Towergate.

I had to claim through Axa on my buildings insurance and they were dreadful. I had a contents claim at the same time with Aviva who were amazing.

Axa were so appalling I looked up complaints against them on FOS and there were loads, many sounding similar to how they were treating me.

I would never ever insure with them again.

Nfu - been brilliant for us

Another vote here for NFU. They've been excellent

We have a large 1860s house with a newer edwardian wing. Lots of trees (conservation area and TPOs). We're with Halifax who were far cheaper than the likes of NFU (who wanted £5k plus). Most standard insurers wouldn't even quote.

Large, old, complex house, outbuildings, land etc here - I think we pay about £6-700 pa with Halifax.

Thanks for this - good to know.

This is so helpful, thanks. We'll get quotes from NFU and Halifax and see how they look :)

Could try Alan Boswell ( broker) as they can deal with unusual stuff. Managed to get me car insurance in a car that got “computer says no” from everyone ( import).

Howden insurance are an advised broker so more likely to be able to tell you which is the best policy for your needs they have actual branches so you can actually speak to a real human if needed!

I've got a quote via gocompare for Homeprotect and they are coming up £100/year cheaper than others.They are underwritten by AXA. Has anyone used them and made a claim?