If you own a country home or specialty property, you know that no two country estates are alike. Likewise, no two insurance policies or premiums will be the same. It’s important to find a farmhouse insurance policy that you can trust, that will give you the right coverage and settle your claim when you need it.

It could be that your property has been passed down from generation to generation in your family or that you have worked hard to buy the house of your dreams. Regardless of how you came to own your property, you’ll know that it’s worth much more to you than the cost of bricks and mortar. You can have a business from there or living there is a lifestyle option. Sentimental value alone means it’s vital that you take the right steps to protect your home.

So what should you look for when choosing an insurance policy?

A Specialized Country House Insurance policy may include:

• Building and/or contents coverage, including accidental damage
• Coverage for farm buildings and outbuildings
• Responsibility as owner and landowner
• Coverage for antiques, paintings and articles of a specialized nature
• Coverage for high-value jewelry and watches
• All-risk coverage worldwide
• Your legal expenses for a variety of matters

In addition, you may be able to use your country properties for alternative sources of income, such as office space, farmland rentals, or wedding venues. You need to make sure you get a personalized insurance policy so that all risks are covered.

You must ensure that you have the correct sum insured for buildings and contents. In our experience, the cost to rebuild farmhouses can far exceed the market value of the property due to the unique structure of the home. It is vital that your insurance adequately covers your rebuilding costs or you may find yourself underinsured and having to pay the difference if a major catastrophe strikes.

Do you need to review your Casa de Campo Insurance?

Go to a specialized broker who deals with a group of insurers. You should be looking for a dedicated and experienced account manager, a full claims handling service, and unbiased advice on purchasing an insurance policy that best suits your needs and budget.

Some brokers may offer a home visit if you want to ensure they get the correct sums insured and coverage and advise you on steps you can take to mitigate your risks.

Cottage insurance is not something you can buy on an online comparison website.

If you choose the right broker, you will benefit from a competitive premium with a leading insurer combined with a specialist country house insurance broker.