Moving into a newly built home is a major milestone. As you prepare for handover and move-in, there are many practical details to organise, one of the most important being home insurance.
It’s a common misconception that insurance is less of a priority for new-build homes. While newly constructed properties may benefit from modern materials and building standards, they still face risks that require appropriate insurance cover. In addition, mortgage providers require buildings insurance to be in place before releasing funds.
This guide focuses specifically on the insurance considerations that apply to newly built homes in Ireland, explaining what makes them different from older properties and how to ensure you are protected from day one. For general guidance on home insurance, including buildings and contents cover, you can also read our guide to home insurance for first-time buyers.
What Qualifies as a ‘New Build’?
Understanding how insurers define a new build is important, as this classification affects cover options, pricing and eligibility for certain benefits.
Newly Constructed Homes
A new build generally refers to a property that has been recently constructed and has not previously been lived in. This includes:
- Homes completed by a developer and purchased on completion
- Self-build homes where the homeowner has overseen the construction process
From an insurance perspective, new builds start without the wear and tear associated with older properties. This can result in lower premiums and additional policy benefits.
Difference Between New Builds and Renovated Homes
Heavily renovated or converted properties are not usually classified as new builds for insurance purposes. Even extensive refurbishments do not change this if the original structure or foundations remain.
This distinction can influence policy terms, pricing and discount eligibility, so it’s important to confirm how your property will be classified before arranging cover.
Key Differences Between New Build, Self-Build and Standard Home Insurance
The type of property insured affects the type of cover required, the timing of insurance and the risks involved. The table below outlines the key distinctions.
| New Build | Self-Build | Standard Home Insurance | |
| Coverage for structural defects | Includes a structural warranty (typically up to 10 years) covering major construction defects such as subsidence or faulty workmanship. | Covers risks during the construction phase only; no structural warranty unless arranged separately. | Does not cover structural defects unless explicitly stated in the policy. |
| Developer guarantees | Compliments developer guarantees, which confirm the property meets required building standards. | No developer guarantees: the homeowner is responsible for construction quality. | Does not include developer guarantees. |
| Risk profile | Often lower premiums due to modern building standards and current regulatory compliance. | Higher risk during construction, requiring specialist policies. | Premiums depend on the property’s age, condition and location. |
| Contents insurance | Optional initially, as the home may not yet be fully furnished. | Typically excluded during construction. | Usually included as part of a combined policy. |
When Does Home Insurance Become Necessary?
For newly built homes, insurance is required at specific stages of the process, depending on whether the property is under construction, being purchased from a developer or approaching completion. Understanding when cover needs to start helps ensure there are no gaps in protection and avoids delays with mortgage drawdown.
Insurance During Construction
Standard home insurance does not apply to properties under construction. Self-build projects require specialist cover during the build phase to protect against risks such as structural damage, theft of materials and public liability. If you are purchasing a new home from a developer, the builder usually holds construction insurance until handover. This should always be confirmed before contracts are finalised.
Insuring at Handover or Completion
Once legal ownership transfers, typically at completion or key handover, responsibility for the property passes to you. From this point, standard home insurance must be in place, even if you have not yet moved in. Any delay could leave the property exposed to risks such as fire, storm damage or vandalism.
Mortgage Provider Requirements
Mortgage lenders typically require proof of buildings insurance before releasing funds. Arranging cover in advance helps avoid delays in the completion process.
What Does Home Insurance Cover for Newly Built Homes?
Structural Damage Beyond Warranties
Most new homes in Ireland come with a 10-year structural warranty, such as HomeBond or Premier Guarantee. These warranties cover major construction defects but exclude many common risks. Home insurance provides broader protection, covering events such as fire, storm damage, escape of water and accidental damage, as well as costs like alternative accommodation and fire brigade charges.
Theft and Vandalism
Newly built homes can be vacant for periods before move-in, which may increase the risk of theft or vandalism. Contents insurance is particularly important if belongings are stored at the property prior to occupation.
Public Liability
Public liability cover protects you if someone is injured on your property and you are found legally liable. This is relevant even in newly built homes where contractors, decorators or delivery personnel may be present.
Structural Warranties and Developer Guarantees
Structural warranties and developer guarantees address defects related to construction quality. They do not replace home insurance and do not cover damage caused by insured events such as fire, flooding or theft.
Home insurance works alongside these warranties, providing financial protection for risks outside the scope of the builder’s responsibility.
Rebuild Cost for Newly Built Homes
Buildings insurance is based on the rebuild cost, not the purchase price or market value.
For newly built homes, rebuild cost calculations should include:
- Modern construction materials
- Labour and professional fees
- Site clearance and debris removal
- Energy-efficient installations such as heat pumps or solar panels
Using the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI) rebuild cost calculator or obtaining a professional valuation can help ensure accurate cover.
Energy-Efficient Features and Modern Construction Benefits
Newly built homes often include modern security systems and energy-efficient features that can reduce risk and, in some cases, result in more competitive premiums.
However, these features may also increase rebuild costs, which should be reflected in your buildings sum insured to avoid underinsurance.
What Happens If You Need to Make a Claim?
If you need to make a claim, acting promptly and following the correct steps can help the process run smoothly.
Notify Your Insurer or Broker
Report the loss or damage as soon as possible in line with your policy terms.
Document the Damage
Where safe, take photographs and keep records to support your claim.
Prevent Further Loss
Take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage and keep receipts for any emergency repairs.
A broker can assist throughout the claims process by liaising with insurers and helping you understand what is covered.
Setting Up Home Insurance for a Newly Built Home
Prepare Your Documentation
You may be asked for:
- Completion certificate or building control sign-off
- Details of any structural warranty
- Property details and security features
- Completion or handover date
Activate Cover at the Right Time
Ensure your policy start date aligns with legal ownership or handover. Solicitors and mortgage providers typically require confirmation that cover is in place.
Home Insurance FAQs for Newly Built Homes
Is home insurance mandatory for a newly built home?
Home insurance is not legally mandatory, but buildings insurance is required by mortgage lenders before funds are released.
Does a 10-year structural warranty replace home insurance?
No. Structural warranties cover specific construction defects only and do not provide the broader protection offered by home insurance.
Can a self-build qualify for new-build insurance after completion?
Once complete and habitable, a self-build can be insured under a standard home insurance policy, but it does not automatically qualify for new-build benefits.
Home Insurance for Newly Built Homes Made Simple
Newly built homes offer many advantages, but arranging appropriate insurance still requires careful consideration.
If you would like guidance on the most suitable cover for your newly built property, our team can help you understand your options and put the right protection in place from the outset.