As we have seen with the recent east coast floods, unforeseen disasters can strike at any time. That’s why it’s so important to protect yourself and your family financially – with the right kind of insurance for when something unexpected happens.
Sure, insurance may not be all that flashy and many people downright begrudge having to pay for it. But it gives you something that’s invaluable: peace of mind that your financial plans are protected, no matter what.
Here are the types of insurance you should think about when buying a property.
Income protection
Say you get sick or have a bad accident and cannot work. Income protection is your financial safety net.
Income protection insurance pays part of your lost income for a set time if you’re unable to work due to partial or total disability, caused by sickness or injury. It takes the financial pressure off you while you get back on your feet and enables you to cover your mortgage repayments and other expenses.
It’s a good idea to check whether you have income protection insurance through your super fund, but if not, we can line you up with a reputable provider. Premiums for this type of insurance outside of super are usually tax deductable.
You may also like to consider trauma insurance, total and permanent disability insurance and life insurance to protect you and your family’s financial future.
Mortgage protection
Mortgage protection insurance covers the cost of your mortgage repayments if you die or become seriously ill. It should be noted that it is only meant to cover your mortgage repayments and not any other expenses for you or your family.
Mortgage protection insurance may be a wise choice if you already have some other kind of life insurance – say with your super plan.
Landlord insurance
If you own an investment property, be sure to look into landlord insurance. This type of insurance can cover you against the risks landlords often face. Examples include tenant damage, theft, vandalism, fire, storms and other natural disasters.
It may also protect you if the tenant stops paying rent, as well as against other legal liabilities.
As with any insurance choice, it’s important to read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to check what exactly is covered.
Building & Contents
Building or home insurance protects against the cost of rebuilding or repairing your property from things that are outside your control, like fire or natural disasters. You can opt for total replacement cover (to rebuild your home as it was prior to the event), or sum-insured cover (coverage up to a certain amount).
When you buy a property, your mortgage broker will most likely recommend that you insure the property before settlement day. When choosing your policy, make sure you have the right amount of coverage, as well as the right type of insurance for your actual needs.
Contents insurance protects your belongings, including carpets, rugs and curtains, in events such as fires, storms or theft. Often it will be bundled together with home insurance.
How your mortgage broker can help
Planning a property purchase? Working with a mortgage broker takes the burden out of finding the right home loan for your needs and the right type of insurance.
We can access some of Australia’s most respected insurance providers and offer you a competitive price.
Let us do the hard yards for you. Get in touch today.
