What Home Insurance Really Covers

Home insurance covers many items that people often overlook. While the standard protections  against theft, fire, and water damage are commonly discussed, what about the lesser-known  covers? 

For example, a recent incident involved a person who fell in her bedroom on the first floor.  They were unable to move due to a broken hip, prompting a call for an ambulance. After a  fracture was confirmed, the challenge arose of getting them out of the house. The paramedics  couldn’t manage this, so the fire department was called, and two fire engines arrived to help.  

They had to decide whether to carry them down the stairs or out the window. Fortunately, with  many responders on the scene, they were able to safely carry them down the stairs and to the  hospital. The costs incurred for the fire department and emergency medical care received at  the property will be covered by their home insurance. 

Other coverages include: 

Sailing boats without engines up to 6 meters. 

Hunting liability. 

Third-party liability for bicycle riding. 

Third-party liability for wheelchair use. 

Third-party liability for fishing. 

Restaurant expenses: If the kitchen in the insured home is rendered completely unusable due  to a covered claim, the insurer will reimburse restaurant expenses up to a stated amount in the  policy.  

Doctors. In the event of a serious accident at home resulting in injury, the insurer will arrange  for a doctor to be sent urgently to provide appropriate care.  

Babysitting services: If the injured insured is the primary carer for children under 14, the  insurer will cover babysitting costs. 

Early return due to hospitalisation or death of a family member: If the insured is away from  home and a next of kin should be taken into hospital or die the insurer will cover  transportation costs back home. 

Professional services: The insurer can arrange for qualified professionals to provide services  such as plumbers, locksmiths, electricians, and more. 

Ambulance services: The insurer will organise and cover ambulance transport for accidents or  serious illnesses occurring at home, ensuring transport to the nearest appropriate hospital  within a 50 km radius. The insurer will also relay urgent messages from the insured to family  members.

Temporary replacement of television: If the insured is without a TV due to theft, fire, flooding,  or explosion, the insurer will provide similar equipment free of charge for up to 15 days. 

DIY services: This includes installation of bathroom and kitchen fixtures, sealing worn joints,  replacing taps, installing lamps, assembling flat-pack furniture, and more. Materials needed for  these tasks are not included and must be paid for by the insured. 

IT assistance: If you need help with domestic computers located in the home, the insurer  provides services such as telephone assistance, online chat, and remote-control assistance,  available 24/7.