The Extras People Forget to Insure
A swimming pool, granny flat, shed or other outbuilding is often assumed to be automatically covered under a standard home policy — and while permanent structures usually are, the details vary enough between insurers that it's worth checking explicitly rather than assuming.
Swimming Pools
In-ground pools are typically covered as part of your building sum insured, since they're a permanent structure, but above-ground and portable pools are sometimes treated as contents with a lower payout cap. Pool equipment (pumps, filtration, solar heating) can also be excluded unless specifically listed.
Granny Flats and Outbuildings
A habitable granny flat used as a separate dwelling (rented out or lived in by family) can change your risk profile enough that some insurers require it to be specifically declared — undeclared secondary dwellings are a common reason claims get reduced or declined. Sheds, garages and carports are usually covered automatically as part of the building, but their contents (tools, equipment) often fall under a separate, lower contents sub-limit.
A Quick Checklist
- Declare any granny flat, secondary dwelling or short-term rental use explicitly — don't assume it's automatically included
- Confirm whether pool equipment and solar heating are covered under building cover or need to be added
- Check the specific sub-limit for shed and garage contents, which is often set well below your main contents sum insured
This page is for educational purposes and isn't personalised financial advice. Premiums, terms and eligibility vary by insurer, state and individual circumstances — always check the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) before buying.