In home insurance, All Risks refers to a type of cover that protects your property and belongings against a broad range of unexpected events, unless specifically excluded. Sometimes called Property All Risk Insurance or All Risk Property Insurance, it offers wider protection than standard contents insurance, which usually only covers named events like fire or theft.
All Risks cover often includes accidental loss or damage and applies to items both inside and outside your home – including personal belongings taken on holiday or when out and about.
What does All Risks property insurance cover?
All Risks cover is designed to offer peace of mind by protecting against everyday mishaps and unforeseen events, such as:
- Accidental damage to items in the home (e.g., dropping or breaking a TV or laptop)
- Loss or theft of personal belongings outside the home (e.g., stolen phone in a café)
- Damage caused by unusual or unexpected events, like water damage from sudden rain while outdoors (unless specifically excluded)
- Cover for valuables when travelling or temporarily away from home
- Items not tied to a fixed location, such as watches, jewellery, and tech devices
Common exclusions in All Risks cover
Despite the name, All Risks doesn’t mean every risk as insurers still list certain things they won’t cover, such as:
- Wear and tear or gradual deterioration
- Damage caused by pests or vermin
- Losses due to negligence (e.g., leaving items unattended in public)
- Mechanical or electrical breakdown
- Losses outside geographical limits (unless your policy includes worldwide cover)
- Unspecified or high-value items not individually declared
Specified vs unspecified All Risks cover
Insurers often split this cover into two categories, depending on the value and type of item.
- Specified items: High-value belongings listed individually on your policy (e.g. engagement rings, cameras)
- Unspecified items: Everyday personal possessions covered up to a set limit without being individually named
You usually need to specify valuable items to ensure full cover, while unspecified items are covered only up to a policy limit.
Examples of All Risks home insurance claims
This type of cover typically applies to portable, high-risk items, particularly when you’re away from home. For example:
- A smartwatch lost while on holiday abroad
- A phone stolen from your bag in a café
- A diamond ring damaged during a fall
- Glasses accidentally crushed in luggage
- A laptop dropped while commuting
Making the most of your All Risks cover
Here’s how to make sure your All Risks cover works for you:
Specify high-value items: Check your insurer’s limits and declare expensive possessions individually. Items like jewellery, watches, laptops or designer handbags often need to be listed separately to be fully protected.
Check territorial limits: Some policies only cover items within the UK, while others extend worldwide, especially important if you travel regularly or take valuables abroad.
Keep records and valuations: Receipts, photos, and professional valuations help support your claim and speed up processing. Keeping your records up to date can make a big difference in how smoothly a claim is settled.
FAQ’s
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What is the difference between All Risks and standard contents insurance?
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Standard contents insurance covers only named perils like fire, theft, or flood. All Risks cover protects against a broader range of causes, including accidental loss or damage, especially outside the home.
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Do I need to list every item to be covered under All Risks?
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Not always. Some policies have a single-item limit for unspecified belongings. But for valuables above that limit, you’ll likely need to list them individually.
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Is All Risks cover included in standard home insurance policies?
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Not usually. It is often offered as an optional add-on or part of a premium contents policy.
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Does All Risks insurance cover items taken abroad?
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Coverage depends on your policy. Some offer worldwide protection, while others only cover possessions within the UK. Always check your policy terms before travelling.
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How do I make a claim under an All Risks policy?
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Report the loss or damage as soon as possible, provide proof of ownership or valuation if you can, and follow your insurer’s claims process carefully.
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Are there claim limits or excesses for All Risks insurance?
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Yes. Your policy will specify limits on unspecified items and excess amounts you must pay towards claims.
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Can I add All Risks cover to my existing home insurance policy?
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Often yes, but you’ll need to check with your insurer and may pay an additional premium.
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How can I check if I already have All Risks cover?
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Review your policy documents or contact your insurer or broker to confirm what is included.
