Self Build Insurance
Self-build insurance in Ireland provides you with financial protection for a new home construction or renovation project, safeguarding you against potential financial risks and losses that could happen during the construction process.
Who is Self Build Insurance suitable for?
If you’re planning a self-build project in Ireland, you need specialist insurance that understands the unique risks and challenges of constructing your own home. Our self-build insurance is designed for individual homeowners and professionals managing their own build – ensuring comprehensive protection from the moment you’re ready to start construction through to the completion of your dwelling.
What is Self Build Insurance ?
Self build insurance policies provide financial protection for building a new house, adding an extension or renovating an existing property in Ireland.
As the property owner you will be responsible for the project management of the site; so whether you undertake the work yourself or hire general contractors, you’ll need appropriate self-build insurance cover.
Choosing to self-build your own home is not without risk, so it’s not the type of decision that most people make lightly. A self build project can be a very costly endeavour, even when things go to plan; and when things don’t go to plan you might find you’ve bitten off more than you can chew. There’s a lot to be said about having peace of mind so you can concentrate on construction; that’s why it’s vital that you get proper advice and choose the best insurance policy before beginning work on the project.
Protecting you from potential financial losses and liabilities
General contractor risks
Employers liability
Public liability
Malicious damage
Theft of equipment
Fire damage
Flood & water damage
Storm damage
Just like every self-build is unique, every property insurance policy is unique and these are just some of the options that can be protected under a home policy you take out through Top Insure.
Benefits of Self Build Insurance with Top Insure
Comprehensive property insurance policies backed by our expert advice, personal support, and local market knowledge to ensure you're fully protected.
Questions about Self Build Insurance you didn't think to ask!
Truth is, you might have alot more questions and our experts can answer them all.
Do you need insurance for a self build?
Yes, obtaining insurance coverage for a self build is highly recommended as it protects your investment, covers potential risks during the construction process, and provides liability coverage in case of accidents or damage.
What does a self-build policy cover?
A self-build policy covers theft, vandalism, and damage to the property during construction.
Do builders have their own insurance?
No, not all builders have their own insurance. Always insist on seeing proof of your builders’ insurance policy coverage. It is recommended that builders, contractors, and tradesmen have specialized insurance for their business, but a surprising number of them do not. By having insurance coverage, they can safely work on others’ homes and properties while also having protection against the costs of repairs in the event of unintentional damage to your property.
What is building under the course of construction insurance?
“Course of construction” insurance is just another word for “self-build” insurance, as referred to by insurance companies and brokers. Course of construction insurance provides protection for newly constructed properties or for existing properties undergoing renovation or extension.
Do you need site insurance for self-build construction?
Site insurance for self-build construction is not always legally required. However, it can provide valuable protection against potential risks and liability during the construction process. As a self-builder, you are responsible for ensuring health and safety on your building site, and it is important to have procedures in place to prove compliance to the relevant safety authorities.
What specific coverage do I need for my self-build project?
You need course of construction insurance (also known as self-build insurance) while the property is being built. That covers you for Fire, Storm, Flood, Malicious Damage, and Theft from Site (From a locked building). The additional cover available is public and employers liability.
How much will the insurance cost for the entire duration of the project?
Self-build insurance is likely to be in the range of €1100 to €1300 for a 12 month policy cover which can be extended to 18 months under the same policy. This is based on buildings sums insured up to €370,000; higher construction costs may cost more.
Does the policy cover any damage caused by builders working on my project?
No. Any damage caused by your builder, their employees, or by contractors/sub-contractors is claimable from the contractor/sub-contractor’s insurance policy. This is why it’s important to check the tradespeople working on your site/property have appropriate insurance cover in place.
What is the claims process, and how long does it typically take to receive a payout?
This really depends on the type of claim. Typically a material damage claim for the property will see your claim assessed within 72 hours by the insurer, and depending on the type of damage, the claim could be adjusted by the insurer and compensation figures could be agreed 2 to 3 weeks later.
Are there any exclusions or limitations in the policy that I should be aware of?
Ensure that anyone working on site has a safe pass course completed, even if it is a voluntary worker or member of your family. It is a condition of any building under a self-build insurance policy in Ireland.
Stay in the know with our guides
Empower yourself with the latest insurance facts. Our Self Build Insurance guides are designed to educate and give you the confidence to understand the coverage you need.
Don't wonder what's best. Ask us!
We've been helping clients find the best home insurance for almost 10 years.