Beyond the Headlines: Helping a client understand what their policy was really covering

Why unlimited doesn’t always mean fully protected

When it comes to home insurance, headlines like “unlimited cover” or “blanket contents” can sound reassuring - but they don’t always tell the full story. Inner limits and exclusions can leave gaps that only become clear when you need to make a claim. That’s why expert advice matters.

In this case, a client approached us with a quote for a standard policy that looked comprehensive on the surface. Our role was to dig deeper, explain what those terms really meant, and provide clarity on the options available.

Challenge

A member of Colchester Rugby Football Club (CRFC), of which Howden are a principle sponsor, approached Private Client specialist Nick Beckingham after hearing about our involvement with the club. They had a quote for a standard home insurance policy from Admiral. The policy featured unlimited sums insured and blanket contents cover - but the terms lacked clarity on key details.

Why “unlimited” isn’t always enough

“Unlimited’ sounds reassuring, but it only refers to the total buildings sum insured, which only comes into play in the event of a total or near total loss. There’s no number for which you’re indemnified and no starting point for negotiation – which can complicate claims.

Policies also include inner limits, so while the unlimited building sums insured may have no maximum figure, these limits will be capped for things like finding a leak, alternative accommodation, or theft. Similarly, blanket contents cover doesn’t guarantee full protection - inner limits still apply.

You can read more in our articles:

• Unlimited buildings insurance policies
• Unlimited contents insurance policies
• Protecting your valuables – why it pays to be specific

The alternatives

Not all policies are the same. Some are Perils-based covering specific risks like fire, flood, storm or theft. Others are All Risks, covering all losses except those specifically excluded.

Understanding these differences help clients make informed decisions. You can read more in our article:

All Risks vs Peril’s based policies: what’s right for your home?

Outcome

Nick explained how the client’s existing cover would translate into an All Risks policy, highlighting its broader protection and flexibility. After quickly receiving the extra details, he prepared tailored options that gave the client clarity and confidence.

The client chose an All Risks policy for its wider cover, despite the slightly higher premium. The insurer offered an interest-free Direct Debit, and we arranged for cover to be in place by the required date.

From unlimited to comprehensive: why expert advice matters

While “unlimited” cover sounds reassuring, it doesn’t guarantee complete protection. Inner limits and exclusions can leave gaps that only become apparent when you need to claim. That’s where professional advice makes the difference.

Our Private Client specialists aren’t just experienced - they’re professionally qualified insurance advisers who understand the fine detail. We take the time to review policies, ensuring limits are clearly understood and correctly set, and we explain what those headlines really mean.