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
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AI summary

House insurance is essential for homeowners, protecting your property from events like fire, floods, and earthquakes. Lenders typically require cover before settlement, so you should seek quotes once your offer is accepted.

Your policy is based on a 'sum insured' value—the total rebuild cost, not market price. You can estimate this using the online Cordell Sum Sure Tool. Costs vary significantly by location.

Consider bundling with contents insurance for your belongings. EQC cover is automatically included with most policies.

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