Buying guide

Do I need house insurance and how much does it cost?

We’ve answered all of your questions about house insurance to help make sure you've got the cover you need.

Ben Tutty
Last updated: 28 May 2026 | 7 min read
AI

AI summary

House insurance is essential for homeowners, protecting your property from events like fire, floods, and accidental damage. Your policy automatically includes EQC cover for natural disasters.

It's crucial to calculate your sum insured (rebuild cost) accurately using a tool like the Cordell Sum Sure Tool, not your home's market value. Costs vary significantly by location and other factors. Lenders require insurance before settlement, so you should shop around for quotes as soon as your offer is accepted.

What insurance do you need on your house in NZ?

House insurance

Contents insurance

Life and trauma insurance

EQC insurance

House insurance can provide cover for flooding and much more.

How much is house insurance in NZ?

When should you get home insurance when buying a house?

How do you calculate house insurance value NZ?

Property repairs can be hugely expensive. Insurance can help.

What to do after a fire with my house insurance?

Online quote on house insurance in NZ

Author

Ben Tutty Ben Tutty
Content Writer