By Clare Yates
7 min read
What is a non-standard construction property?
When insurers talk about a “standard” home, they’re usually referring to a property built with brick or stone walls and a tiled or slate roof. Anything built differently is generally classed as non-standard construction.
That might sound like a hassle, but all it really means is that you may need a more tailored home insurance policy. These homes often cost more to repair or rebuild, or come with risks that insurers need to account for.
Types of non-standard properties
Your home might be considered non-standard if it falls into one of these categories, or uses one of the following materials:
Timber-framed properties
Flat roof homes
Listed buildings
Thatched roof cottages
Steel- or concrete-framed homes
Asbestos
Flint
Asphalt
Shingle
Homes built with unusual materials (like glass or eco-friendly designs)
Converted buildings like barns or chapels
Let’s take a closer look at how each type could affect your insurance.
Timber-framed properties
Timber-framed homes are often admired for their character and sustainability. But because wood is more vulnerable to fire, pests and rot, insurers may view these homes as higher risk. That can mean higher premiums, and fewer providers willing to offer cover. The good news is that if your home does a timber frame, there is specialist timer frame home insurance available.
Flat roof homes
If your home has a flat roof, especially if it covers more than 25% of the property, insurers may class it as non standard. Flat roofs can be prone to leaks or water damage, so they often require more maintenance. You might be asked about the roofing material and when it was last replaced or checked.
Listed buildings
Living in a listed building means you’re in a home with historic or architectural importance. But it also means repairs can be tricky. Insurers know that strict regulations often apply, and that specialist materials and craftsmen may be needed. All of this can push up the cost of insurance. But don’t worry, if you are lucky enough to own a listed property, there is specialist listed building home insurance available.
Thatched roof homes
Thatched roofs are beautiful, but they’re more of a fire risk and usually more expensive to repair. Insurers may ask for proof of regular maintenance and fire prevention measures. Premiums are typically higher to reflect the specialist nature of any repair work. The good news is that if you have a character home with a thatched roof, there is specialist thatched roof home insurance available.
Steel or concrete-framed homes
These types of properties were more common in the mid-20th century, especially post-war. Over time, concerns have grown over the durability and maintenance of some of these structures. As a result, insurers may be cautious, and some lenders might ask for specific surveys before offering a mortgage.
Fibreglass
Fibreglass is often used in modern flat roofs, especially as a durable alternative to felt. While it’s tough and weather-resistant, some insurers still see fibreglass roofs as non-standard, especially if they cover a large surface area. If you’ve got fibreglass roofing, make sure it’s installed and maintained properly, and check that your insurer is happy to cover it.
Asbestos
Asbestos was widely used in buildings before the dangers were fully understood, especially in garage roofs, soffits and older pipe lagging. If your home contains any asbestos, insurers might be cautious due to the health risks and high cost of specialist removal. You don’t necessarily need to remove it, but it’s a good idea to get a professional survey and be upfront with your insurer about where it is.
Flint
Flint is commonly found in older rural or period properties, often alongside brick or stone. It’s strong and eye-catching, but because it’s not used much in modern builds, some insurers class it as non-standard. As long as the structure is sound, you should still be able to get cover – you may just need to go through a specialist provider.
Asphalt
Asphalt is typically used in flat or gently sloped roofs and can offer excellent waterproofing. That said, insurers sometimes view asphalt roofs as higher risk, particularly if they’re ageing or poorly maintained. If you’ve got an asphalt roof, keeping it in good condition can help keep your premiums in check.
Shingle
Shingle roofs – often made from wood or asphalt-based materials – are less common in the UK and more susceptible to weather damage, which is why some insurers see them as higher risk. They can also be more flammable than tile or slate. If your home has a shingle roof, you might need to speak to a specialist insurer who understands this kind of construction
Homes with unusual materials
Maybe your home was built with reclaimed wood, glass, straw bales, or other eco materials. These unique builds are often admired but can be trickier and more costly to repair. Fewer builders may be qualified to work with the materials, which can push premiums up.
Converted buildings
Barns, chapels, and other converted properties can make stunning homes, but due to their age and design, they may not be built to modern residential standards. That means they can cost more to rebuild or repair, which insurers will take into account when pricing your policy.
What do I need to declare if I live in a non-standard property?
When you compare or apply for home insurance, you will need to answer a few questions about your home. You’ll need to say what it’s made from, when it was built, and exactly where it is. If your home doesn’t tick all the usual boxes, insurers may class it as non-standard and could offer different terms or premiums than usual to ensure the correct level of cover is provided.
That’s why it’s so important to compare insurers. It means you have a better chance of finding one that understands your property and is happy to cover it. Plus, shopping around helps you find the best price and the right amount of cover for your needs.
It’s also really important to be completely honest and upfront with the details. For example, you may need to say whether the building is listed, if you’ve made any major changes to its structure, or if it’s in an area prone to things like flooding or subsidence. You might also be asked about the type of roof or walls, and whether any unusual materials have been used in the build.
The more accurate and detailed you are, the more likely you are to get the right cover in place. And remember – if you don’t give the full picture, you could risk your insurance being invalid if you ever need to make a claim.
Top tips for cheaper non-standard home insurance
There are still ways to keep your premium down, even if your home is a little out of the ordinary.
Pay annually instead of monthly: If you can afford to pay your premium in one go, it often works out cheaper than spreading the cost monthly, as some providers add interest to monthly payments.
Increase your voluntary excess: Choosing a higher excess – the amount you pay if you make a claim – can reduce your monthly or annual premium. Just make sure it’s still affordable in case you ever need to claim.
Build your no-claims discount: The longer you go without making a claim, the more you could save. Many insurers reward claims-free years with a no-claims bonus, which can add up to big savings over time.
Be honest about your home: It’s really important to be upfront about your home’s construction, age, any previous issues like flooding or subsidence, and how often it’s occupied. Leaving out details could lead to your policy being invalidated later, and no one wants that surprise.
Finding the right cover: Having a non-standard property doesn’t mean your insurance has to be a struggle. There are plenty of specialist insurers who understand the quirks of unique homes and offer tailored policies to match.
It’s worth taking the time to compare quotes and check the fine print, so you can be confident your home is properly protected, and you’re not paying more than you need to.