# What is contents-only insurance?

> Quick answer · Last updated 4 July 2026

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## In short

Covers belongings inside the home — furniture, tech, clothes — without insuring the building structure. Tenants need contents cover; landlords insure the building.

Sum insured should reflect replacement cost of everything you own — use room-by-room estimates. Accidental damage and away-from-home cover are optional extras.

High-value items (jewellery, bikes) may need named limits or separate cover.

Compare with buildings insurance on our home insurance guide.

## Related

- [Home insurance explained](https://moneyguide.org.uk/insurance/home-insurance-explained/)
- [Buildings vs contents](https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/what-is-buildings-insurance-vs-contents/)

## Primary source

abi.org.uk/products-and-issues/choosing-the-right-insurance/home-insurance

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.