Insuring a thatched roof with a home insurance policy
A thatched roof on your home has a charming look, but it’s also more susceptible to fire. Fortunately, home insurance with fire coverage will cover the damage. However, the premium is higher than for a tile roof. Use our comparison tool to find the best insurance for your thatched-roof home.
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A house with a thatched roof
A thatched roof is popular and adds charm to a home, but it carries more risks than a tile roof. Consider the risk of fire or storm damage. Fortunately, you can easily purchase home insurance to cover these risks. Because of these risks, insurers are more cautious.
Homeowners Insurance for Homes with Thatched Roofs
A home with a thatched roof poses a greater fire risk than one with a tiled roof. Thatch is simply more flammable than stone. Fortunately, thatchers have ways to make a thatched roof safer in the event of a fire. Having home insurance that includes fire coverage also provides peace of mind.
All-Risk
- Fire damage
- Burglary and Vandalism
- Damage Caused by Adverse Weather Conditions
- Damage caused by sudden, unforeseen events
Stricter Insurance Requirements for Thatched Roofs
If you take out home insurance for a house with a thatched roof, the terms and conditions are often stricter than for a house with a tiled roof. This is because thatched roofs pose a greater fire hazard. The following is often required:
- The house must be made of stone. Wooden houses with thatched roofs are often not insurable.
- The house must have approved fire safety measures, such as a spark arrestor on the chimney, a smoke or fire alarm system, or a fire extinguisher.
- The insurer may require a facade with no openings between the thatched roof and the living space, in order to reduce the risk of fire spreading.
- The year the house was built is also important. Older houses can sometimes pose a greater risk due to their construction or the materials used. This results in higher premiums or additional requirements.
- No open fireplaces or wood-burning stoves. Or they are permitted only if additional measures have been taken, such as an approved chimney or a heat-resistant pipe. You must also have the chimney swept at least once a year.
- It may be mandatory to have a certified thatcher perform regular maintenance on the thatched roof
Cost of Homeowners Insurance for a Thatched Roof
The premium you pay for thatched-roof insurance is higher than that for a traditional roof because of the increased risk. A good home insurance policy for your thatched-roof home can save you thousands of euros in the event of damage.
The cost of your home insurance depends on various factors. These include the type of thatched roof you have, the value of your home, where you live, and your living situation. The insurer and the coverage you choose also determine the amount of your premium.
Types of thatched roofs and risks
When you take out a home insurance policy, you’ll need to specify what type of thatched roof you have. There are two types:
- Traditional thatched roof. In this method, the thatch is tied to what are called thatch battens.
- Solid roof or screw-fastened roof. In this case, the thatch is laid on a solid substrate, such as fire-resistant insulation boards or plywood.
A solid thatched roof is safer in terms of fire and provides better insulation. With a solid thatched roof, you’re less likely to suffer damage, so you’ll also pay a lower insurance premium.
Compensation for Damage Caused by Fire or Water Leaks
Most insurers with a building insurance policy that includes fire coverage reimburse not only damage caused by fire, but also damage caused by firefighting efforts and water damage. In addition, soot damage is usually covered by the insurer. This also applies to damage to thatched roofs.
If a fire completely destroys your home, most insurers will reimburse the costs of rebuilding it. This is called the reconstruction value. Insurers determine this value using the rebuild value scale.
Be sure to always check the policy terms and conditions to see exactly what the insurer covers in the event of a fire.
Coverage for Water Leaks
Storms are becoming more frequent in the Netherlands. If you’re unlucky, this can cause your thatched roof to leak. Fortunately, damage caused by flooding and severe weather is covered if you have home insurance.
Purchase a Homeowners Insurance Policy for a Thatched Roof
Would you like to purchase home insurance for a thatched roof?
Tips for Insuring a Thatched Roof
Lower your insurance costs with these tips:
Get an approved fire extinguisher for your home.
Minimize storm and water damage by properly maintaining your thatched roof.
Install lightning rods.
Connect the smoke detectors to the alarm system.
Take out both your home and personal property insurance with a single insurer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Insuring a Thatched Roof
Why is home insurance important for a house with a thatched roof?
Insurance for your thatched-roof home is important because the risk of extensive damage is much greater than with a tiled roof. Think of fire and storm damage. Good home insurance can save you thousands of euros.
Why is insurance for a house with a thatched roof more expensive?
Homeowners insurance for a house with a thatched roof is more expensive because the risk of fire is greater than with roof tiles. As a result, insurers charge a higher premium. In insurance, the rule is: the higher the risk, the higher the premium.
What is the best home insurance for my thatched roof?
Compare the terms and conditions of different insurers. A low premium isn't always the best choice. Check what each insurer covers for each type of policy, assess your risk, and only then compare the premiums. Also pay attention to the deductible.
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