What Is Home Insurance Ireland?

Home insurance represents a single insurance policy that will cover you in the event of any type of damage that you might incur with your property. The policy addresses two primary categories: building insurance (structural damage) and contents insurance (belongings protection). Coverage is available on monthly or annual payment schedules.

How Does Home Insurance Work in Ireland?

Insurance operates through claim submission when damage occurs. The insurer pays either the full amount or a percentage of repair costs. Claims require supporting evidence.

What is excess? The excess is the amount you have to pay towards repairs that are covered by your insurance. Lower excess typically correlates with higher premiums.

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What Does Home Insurance in Ireland Cover?

Two main policy types exist: buildings insurance and contents insurance, plus additional coverage options.

What Is Buildings Insurance?

Buildings insurance covers structural damage to the property including roofs, walls, windows, ceilings, exterior elements, flooring, and fixtures.

Covered situations:

  • Fires and explosions
  • Earthquakes
  • Storms
  • Flooding
  • Trees or branches falling
  • Burglary causing damage
  • Violence or vandalism

Not covered:

  • Terrorism-caused damage
  • Flooding in flood-prone areas
  • Normal wear and tear
  • Gates and fences affected by storms

What Is Contents Insurance?

Contents insurance covers movable objects: furniture, appliances, fixtures, fittings, and flooring.

Covered situations:

  • Damaged or lost items
  • Accidental damage
  • Damage while moving house
  • Food spoilage from appliance failure
  • Stolen cash from property

Not covered:

  • Money or items stolen without proper security
  • Vehicle damage
  • Normal wear and tear
  • Damage from extended absences

What Is Liability Insurance and All-Risks Cover?

Liability Insurance covers accidents or injuries to others in your home, including legal bills and medical costs. This is critical for landlords.

All-Risks Cover protects personal items inside or outside the property. This is vital if you have jewellery or valuables in the property.

How Much Does Home Insurance in Ireland Cost?

Premiums vary based on coverage type and location. Quote factors include property condition, location, and value. The average cost of home insurance in Ireland is approximately €430 per year, though premiums can range from as little as €160 to upwards of €850 depending on your property, location, and coverage level.

Home Insurance Ireland Comparison

Below is a sample comparison for a 4-bedroom detached house in Galway (rebuild cost €350,000, contents value €35,000, buildings and contents cover with accidental damage):

Home Insurance Ireland Comparison
Company Annual Quote Excess
Zurich €555 €350
Allianz €561 €250
Aviva €699 €275
123.ie €730 €250
An Post Insurance €855 €275

Source: Money Guide Ireland. Quotes obtained April 2025. Prices are indicative — your premium will vary depending on your property, location, and coverage level. Always compare quotes from multiple providers.

How Do I Apply for Home Insurance?

The best way is to look for quotes online. Fill in your details accurately for precise quotes. Shop around for cheaper rates and better coverage.

What Affects My Home Insurance Premium?

Everything about your home and life could affect premium pricing, as insurers base rates on damage risk. Key factors include:

  1. Property's Value — Higher-value properties with greater rebuilding costs require higher premiums. Multiple properties may qualify for discounted rates.
  2. Property's Condition — Newer properties typically cost less to insure; older properties may incur higher premiums due to maintenance needs.
  3. Property's Location — Areas prone to flooding or with high crime rates cost more. Urban centres like Dublin and Cork may have elevated premiums.
  4. Credit History — Timely bill and mortgage payment history results in lower insurance premiums.

Need Help Setting Up Your New Home?

Moving house? Our experts at Selectra can set up your energy, broadband, and utilities in one free call — saving you time and money.

Ad - Selectra Service
This is a free call from Ireland. Selectra agents can assist you with comparing and switching energy providers on weekdays between 9 am and 5.30 pm.

How Long Do Home Insurance Claims Take?

Processing typically takes up to two weeks depending on the insurer. Most insurers provide a 6-month claim window.

To speed up the process:

  • Be Quick — Submit claims as soon as possible
  • Take Photos — Provide evidence of damage for faster processing
  • Keep Damaged Items — Maintain damaged property for insurer assessment

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Insurance in Ireland

The average cost of home insurance in Ireland is approximately €430 per year, though premiums can range from as little as €160 to upwards of €850 depending on your property, location, and coverage level.

Buildings insurance covers structural damage to the property including roofs, walls, windows, and floors. Contents insurance covers movable objects such as furniture, appliances, and personal belongings.

Key factors include the property's value and rebuild cost, its condition and age, its location (areas prone to flooding or high crime cost more), and your credit history. Locations like Dublin and Cork may have elevated premiums.

Processing typically takes up to two weeks depending on the insurer. Most insurers provide a 6-month claim window. To speed up the process, submit claims quickly, take photos of damage, and keep damaged items for assessment.

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