# What is home insurance excess?

> Quick answer · Last updated 4 July 2026

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## In short

The amount you pay towards each claim before the insurer pays the rest. Standard excess applies to most claims; subsidence and escape of water often have higher compulsory excesses.

Voluntary excess is what you choose on top of compulsory excess to lower premium.

Higher excess saves premium but increases your cost when claiming small losses.

Compare total cost including excess when shopping quotes.

## Related

- [Compare home insurance](https://moneyguide.org.uk/insurance/compare-home-insurance-guide/)
- [Home insurance explained](https://moneyguide.org.uk/insurance/home-insurance-explained/)

## 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.