Insurance support for homes with non standard construction

Homes built with alternative, historic or specialist construction methods can be characterful and highly desirable - but when it comes to insurance, they often need a more informed approach. That’s where we come in.

We provide support for homeowners of non standard construction properties, ensuring their property is understood, accurately presented to insurers, and protected with the right level of cover.

Below are the ways we help you navigate the complexities of non standard construction insurance with confidence.

We take the time to understand your home

Every non standard property is unique. We’ll speak with you to understand:

• The materials and construction methods used
• Any specialist features or heritage considerations
• Your property’s maintenance history
• Risks associated with age, structure or environment

This means insurers receive an accurate and complete picture of your home, reducing the likelihood of issues at the point of claim.

Risk management advice

Non‑standard homes often benefit from additional measures to preserve their condition and reduce risk. We can advise on:

• Specialist maintenance measures
• Managing water ingress or movement

These recommendations can reduce the likelihood of a claim and strengthen your overall insurance position.

We negotiate with insurers on your behalf

You don’t need to navigate underwriting discussions or technical questions - we handle every stage for you. We:

• Present your property clearly and professionally
• Explain unique features directly to underwriters
• Negotiate terms, premiums and conditions
• Challenge decisions where appropriate

Our experience means we know how to position non standard homes effectively, helping to secure fair, accurate cover on the right terms.

We know which insurers to approach

Not all insurers can support non standard construction - and approaching the wrong providers can lead to unnecessary declines. Our Private Client team already knows:

• Which insurers understand specialist materials
• Who accepts which construction types
• Which underwriters have the right appetite
• Where to find the most comprehensive cover

These relationships can make a significant difference to both the outcome and the speed of obtaining cover. It also saves you time and avoids the frustration of navigating the wider market alone.

We ensure you fully understand your cover

Non standard construction can affect your policy in important ways - from excluded perils to maintenance clauses to survey requirements. We make sure you understand:

• What is covered
• What isn’t, and why
• How your property would be reinstated
• Any responsibilities you may have as the homeowner (particularly in the property in listed
• The differences between insurers
• Why we recommend a certain policy or provider

Our goal is to give you clarity and reassurance that your home is properly protected.

We’re here for you throughout your policy

Our support doesn’t end once your policy is arranged. We continue to assist with:

• Mid term changes
• Ongoing risk management advice
• Renewal reviews
• Claims support
• Updates following renovations

We act as your trusted insurance partner, ensuring your cover keeps pace with your home.

Protecting your non standard home starts with the right advice

Whether your property is listed, or features cob walls, timber framing, metal structures, Bungaroosh, flat roofs or any other specialist construction, we’re here to help you secure the right insurance with confidence.

If you’d like advice or want us to find the most suitable insurance policy for your home, please contact us on 020 8256 4901 or email privateclients@howdeninsurance.co.uk

Steve Moores

Steve brings an expertise to private client insurance. His hands on work with clients gives him a clear understanding of how cover works in practice - and how to ensure it genuinely protects what matters most.

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