Build Self Security

You will need to insure the project for its Professional Reinstatement Cost (i.e.: the cost to rebuild the property at completion with allowance for site clearance and professional fees). Basically if a serious loss occurs 2 weeks prior to completion, you will probably not have the time or inclination to self-build it again.

If the property is habitable and you take up residence, despite further work being undertaken, cover will no longer be afforded under your Self-Builder policy. In any case, build insurance self is an important aspect of a self build project.

This is because you need to protect you property against damage and theft, but more importantly you will have to protect your workers and the public against personal injury. Ideally, get an overall build insurance self package.

You should do some research to get a competitive quote after talking to a number of insurers to get a rough idea. Build insurance self policy is not usually designed to replace a household insurance and as soon as the property is habitable with your possessions in place, correctly constructed insurance cover is required to ensure you are adequately protected.

Self-build projects are often completed whilst in partial or full occupation and that “habitable” may be subjective. If you are in any doubt as to your own position, speak to your insurer to discuss your requirements for build insurance security.

Rather than providing basic build insurance self - should you complete early - you should prefer the most comprehensive site insurance package at the lowest possible premium. However, you should do some study before completing the formalities for a tailored policy.