Garage insurance UK: what you need to know

Garage insurance covers the structure and contents of a garage against risks including fire, theft, flood, and accidental damage. Whether you need a standalone policy depends on whether your garage is attached to your home, how you use it, and what you store inside.

Does home insurance cover my garage?

If your garage is attached to or integral to your home, it is typically included in your buildings insurance automatically. Detached garages in the same grounds are usually also included — but check your policy schedule, as some insurers cap contents cover or exclude detached outbuildings by default.

What does garage insurance cover?

• Buildings — walls, roof, doors, windows of the garage structure
• Contents — tools, bicycles, garden equipment, sporting goods stored inside
• Vehicles — cars stored in the garage may be covered by your motor policy, not home insurance
• Public liability — if someone is injured on your garage premises

How much does garage insurance cost?

A standalone lock-up garage policy typically costs £50–£150 per year depending on location, contents value, and security measures fitted. Adding contents cover to an existing home insurance policy for a detached garage is usually cheaper — often £20–£50 added to your annual premium.

What is not covered?

• Mechanical breakdown of vehicles stored inside
• Contents left in an unlocked garage (most policies require the garage to be locked)
• Business stock or commercial equipment without a commercial policy
• Gradual deterioration or wear and tear to the garage structure

How to reduce the cost of garage insurance

• Fit a British Standard deadlock or BS3621 padlock on detached garages
• Install a monitored alarm or CCTV — some insurers offer discounts
• Only insure contents at realistic replacement value — avoid over-insuring
• Bundle with your existing home insurer — often cheaper than a separate policy