What is a thatched roof?
Unlike ordinary homes, thatched roofs don’t have tiles on them. Instead, they use dried reeds and grass to form a waterproof roof. Other common materials used to construct thatched roofs include wheat, barley, straw and heather. Thatched roofs built with water reed will usually last around 60 years, whereas roofs made out of other grasses will only last 30 years before being replaced. Thatched roofs have many advantages, such as being especially warm in winter and cool in the summer, creating savings on energy bills.
Many people assume that only older homes have thatched roofs; this is untrue. Many new build homes throughout the UK are being built using thatched roofs, partially for their effectiveness against weather and also for aesthetic purposes. Thatched roofs are commonly used in the west country.
Common types of thatched roofs include:
- Water ('Norfolk') reed thatch
- Long straw ('yealm') thatch
- Combed wheat reed ('Devon') thatch
- Heather thatch
Why use thatched roof insurance?
A common assumption among homeowners is that thatched roofs are more likely to catch fire than a regular roof. This is false. New regulations and improved training have ensured that the safety of thatched roofs has improved dramatically over the years. Statistically, thatched roofs are no more likely to catch fire; however, the implications can be much more severe when they do. Due to the materials used, fires will spread much quicker and are far more difficult to extinguish.
Not only can this be a risk for your home and family, but it can also create a substantial financial loss if a fire was to occur due to the hefty price associated with thatched roofs. Unfortunately, most insurance brokers will not insure your thatched roof, so finding adequate thatched roof insurance through a specialist broker is vital.
What does thatched roof home insurance cover?
Common types of cover included with thatched roof insurance include:
- Buildings insurance: This covers damage to your thatched roof home’s physical structure, its fixtures and often its fittings, commonly including roofs, chimneys, walls and windows.
- Contents insurance: This covers your possessions, such as furniture, clothing and electricals. It is common for each item to have a maximum claimable value, typically £1,000. If you have any items worth more than £1,000, please discuss this with your thatched roof building insurance provider.
Additionally, thatched roof insurance can also sometimes cover:
- Fire cover
- Storm cover
- Flood cover
- Legal expenses
- Accidental damage
How can we help?
Fortunately, QuoteRack works closely with insurance brokers who can offer you access to specialised schemes offered by niche insurance companies looking to provide thatched roof home insurance.
Frequently asked questions
Do I legally need thatched roof insurance?
Like regular home insurance, thatched roof insurance is not legally required. However, due to your property’s risk of fire spread, repairs and claims can become costly without appropriate cover.
Is thatched roof insurance expensive?
Thatched roofs can often be more expensive than regular slate roofs due to the increased fire risk and rebuild costs. You can keep your thatched roof insurance down by ensuring:
- You have well-maintained chimneys
- You have fire barriers
- Smoke alarms installed
- Fire protection spray
- Safe electrical wiring
Enquire through us for thatched roof Insurance
If you have explored other avenues of enquiry in your search for thatched roof insurance, then you are welcome to submit your details through the QuoteRack website, without cost or obligation to proceed when you receive your insurance quote.