Thatched properties require specialist insurance that accounts for their unique construction, higher fire risk, and the cost of traditional repairs. With around 60,000 thatched homes in the UK, finding appropriate cover means working with insurers who understand this market.
Reviewed by MySupermarketCompare Editorial Team
This page is for UK homeowners with thatched properties who need buildings insurance, contents insurance, or both. That includes:
If your thatched property will be empty for extended periods, you may also need to consider unoccupied property insurance requirements, as standard policies often have occupancy conditions.
Standard home insurance policies are designed for properties with conventional roofing materials like tiles or slate. Thatched roofs fall outside these parameters for several reasons that affect how insurers assess risk.
The primary concern is fire. Thatch is combustible, and fires can spread rapidly through the roof structure. Chimney sparks, electrical faults, and even discarded cigarettes have caused thatched roof fires. Insurers price policies to reflect this elevated risk.
Repair costs are another factor. When a thatched roof needs work, it requires a skilled thatcher using traditional methods. These specialists charge accordingly, and materials must be sourced appropriately. A full re-thatch can cost tens of thousands of pounds.
This combination of increased risk and higher repair costs is why specialist insurers exist for this market. They understand thatched properties and can offer terms that reflect the specific circumstances rather than simply declining the risk.
Premiums for thatched properties are typically higher than standard homes. Industry data suggests the median annual premium for combined buildings and contents cover on a thatched property is around four times that of a conventionally roofed home. Several factors influence where your quote falls within this range.
Insurers often ask about the type of thatch on your property because different materials have different characteristics and lifespans. Understanding your roof helps when comparing quotes and discussing cover.
Most durable, common in East Anglia
Traditional in Devon and Cornwall
Traditional English style, softer appearance
Top section, more exposed to weather
Note that the ridge along the top of the roof typically needs replacing more frequently than the main coat, regardless of material. Insurers may ask about both when assessing condition.
Most thatched property insurance policies include conditions about maintenance. Failing to meet these conditions could affect your ability to claim, so understanding them is important.
Policies typically require annual chimney sweeping, particularly if you have a wood burner or open fire. Keep certificates as evidence. Some insurers specify that sweeping must be done by a registered professional.
Many policies require periodic inspection by an accredited thatcher, often every five or ten years depending on the insurer. The inspection should assess the roof's condition and identify any repairs needed.
If damage or deterioration is identified, policies usually require prompt action. Neglecting known problems could be considered a breach of policy conditions.
Some insurers require periodic electrical inspections, particularly for older properties where wiring may run through or near the roof space.
While thatched property insurance will typically cost more than standard cover, some insurers offer reduced premiums for properties with additional fire protection. Not all measures are recognised by all insurers, so check before investing.
When comparing quotes, ask each provider what measures they recognise and whether any discounts apply. Document any installations with certificates or photographs.
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Start a QuoteA significant proportion of thatched buildings in the UK also have heritage listing. If your property is Grade I, Grade II*, or Grade II listed (or Category A, B, or C in Scotland), this creates additional considerations for insurance.
Listed buildings often require repairs using traditional materials and methods, which can increase costs. There may be restrictions on modifications, including some fire safety measures. Insurers familiar with both thatched and listed properties can account for these factors.
For detailed guidance on heritage property cover, see our listed buildings insurance page.
Thatched roofs present higher fire risk than standard roofing materials, and repairs require specialist thatchers using traditional methods. Rebuild costs are typically higher, and claims can be more complex. Insurers factor in these considerations when pricing policies.
Standard home insurance policies often exclude or limit cover for thatched properties. Most thatched homeowners need a specialist policy designed for non-standard construction, which accounts for the specific risks and repair requirements.
Policies typically require regular chimney sweeping (often annually), periodic inspections by an accredited thatcher (every 5-10 years depending on the insurer), and prompt repairs when needed. Failure to maintain your roof could affect your cover.
Yes. Water reed, combed wheat reed, and longstraw have different lifespans and characteristics. Insurers may ask about the material used and when the roof was last re-thatched or repaired.
Some insurers offer reduced premiums for properties with fire-retardant treatments, thatch batts (fire barriers beneath the thatch), spark arrestors on chimneys, or comprehensive smoke detection systems. Ask providers what measures they recognise.
Many thatched buildings have heritage listing, which adds another layer of underwriting consideration. You may need cover that accounts for both the thatched roof and any restrictions on materials or methods required by heritage regulations.
Thatched properties often have higher rebuild costs than market value suggests. A specialist surveyor familiar with thatched construction can provide a rebuild valuation. This is important because underinsurance can affect claims.
Insurers often have specific requirements for wood burners and open fires in thatched properties, including installation standards, chimney specifications, and usage guidelines. Always check policy conditions and declare any heating appliances.
Find specialist cover for your thatched property by comparing quotes from providers who understand non-standard construction.
Compare Quotes NowThis page was created to help UK owners of thatched properties understand specialist insurance requirements and compare options. Content is reviewed by our editorial team and updated as needed to remain accurate and useful.
Important information: MySupermarketCompare is a UK-based comparison website. We are not an insurer and do not provide insurance products directly. Cover is provided by third-party insurers, and availability, pricing, and eligibility criteria vary by provider. Always check policy documents for full terms and conditions before purchasing.
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Last reviewed: February 2026
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