What is a Traditional Thatched Roof?
A Traditional Thatched Roof is the classic method of thatching, as it has been done for centuries. The reed is tied to a framework of slats with binding wire and tension wires. We also call this the open construction: the reed is visible from the inside.
This authentic construction gives your home a unique, rustic look and fits perfectly with farms, farmhouses and historic buildings. The reed can ventilate well, which benefits its lifespan.
It's the downside increased fire hazard. In the event of a fire, the fire can spread quickly because oxygen flows through the open construction. That's why insurers say Additional requirements to fire safety and the premium is higher than for a screw or tiled roof.
Important: Increased Fire Hazard
A traditional thatched roof has a higher fire risk than a screw roof. Not all insurers accept this construction. You can contact Finass Verzekert for specialized advice and a suitable solution.
Traditional vs. Screw roof
Traditional Thatched Roof (Open)
The reeds are tied to slats with binding wire. The reeds are visible from the inside. The classic, authentic method.
- ⚠️ Higher fire hazard by oxygen supply
- 💰 Higher premium (up to 2.5x tiled roof)
- 📋 Additional requirements spark arrestor, plating
- ✓ Authentic appearance
- ✓ Good ventilation reeds
Screw roof (Closed)
The reed is screwed onto closed plates. The reed is not visible from the inside. More modern, more fire-safe method.
- ✓ Lower fire hazard no oxygen supply
- ✓ Lower premium (similar tiled roof)
- ✓ Less demands
- ✓ Modern insulation possible
- → Less authentic
🛡️ AllRisk Coverage Standard
With specialized reed insurers you receive standard AllRisk coverage, the most extensive protection:
- 🔥 Fire damage: Fully covered, including firefighting costs and clean-up
- 🌪️ Storm damage: Wind and precipitation, also on the thatched roof
- 💧 Water damage: Leakage, flooding, pipe rupture
- 🔓 Burglary: Theft and vandalism
- ⚡ Lightning Strike: Direct impact and span
- 📡 Established matters: Antennas, solar panels, charging station, fence
📋 Insurer requirements for Traditional Thatched Roof
Spark arrester (MANDATORY)
Copper/stainless steel mesh, mesh size 9.5-12.5mm, 3x flue surface
Chimney Sweeping (MANDATORY)
At least once a year by a recognized company. Save sweeping certificate.
Fire-resistant plating
Plasterboard under roof rails = premium discount. Often highly recommended.
Fire extinguisher 6kg
Approved fire extinguisher of at least 6 kilos available in the house.
Smoke detectors
On every floor + in the ridge of the thatched roof. Mandatory since 2022.
Lightning rod
Significantly reduces the risk of fire due to lightning strikes.
Sprinkler installation
In reed frosts, reed moistens upon smoke detection. Provides premium discount.
Stone House
The house itself must be made of stone. Wooden homes are often not insured.
🔥 Fire Prevention Tips
Reduce the fire risk of your traditional thatched roof:
- 🪵 Dry wood: Only burn dry, untreated and unpainted wood
- 🌡️ Dry periods: DO NOT use the wood stove during prolonged drought
- 🍖 BBQ & fire pit: Far from the roof, away from wind, sparks can blow
- 🍂 Remove leaves: Keep the roof free of dead leaves and branches
- 🔌 Electrical installation: Have it checked regularly for wear
- 👀 Environment: Be aware of fire-hazardous activities at neighbors
🔥 Spark Arrestor Requirements
A spark arrester is mandatory for a fireplace, wood stove or pellet stove. This prevents sparks from ending up on your thatched roof.
- ✓ Material: Copper wire or stainless steel (SS)
- ✓ Wire thickness: Minimum 1 mm diameter
- ✓ Mesh size: Between 9.5 and 12.5 mm
- ✓ Surface: At least 3x the opening of the chimney
- 🧹 Maintenance: Annual cleaning together with chimney sweeping
- 📄 Certificate: Keep the sweep certificate with a note on the spark arrester
💰 Premium indication Traditional Thatched Roof
| Reconstruction value | Indication Per Year |
|---|---|
| €300,000 - €400,000 | €800 - €1,400 |
| €400,000 - €600,000 | €1,200 - €2,000 |
| €600,000 - €800,000 | €1,800 - €2,800 |
| €800,000+ | €2,500 - €3,500+ |
* Indicative. Up to 2.5x higher than a tiled roof. Discount possible for fire-resistant plating, sprinkler, screw roof section.
🏠 Determine reconstruction value
The rebuilding value is the amount needed to rebuild your home in the same condition, including thatched roof:
- 📐 Reconstruction value meter: Association of Insurers, suitable for up to 800 m³
- 🏠 Larger homes: Valuation by structural engineer recommended
- 📈 Indexation: Annual adjustment to construction costs included
- ⚠️ Underinsurance: Avoid! Insufficient payment in case of damage
- ✓ Warranty: Reconstruction value guarantee protects against underinsurance
⚠️ Not Covered / Exclusions
- ✗ Wooden house: Stone house often required, wooden house not insurable
- ✗ Rental to tourists: Holiday rentals often not covered (long-term rentals are covered)
- ✗ No spark arrester: Insurer will not cover damage due to lack of spark arrester
- ✗ Chimney not swept: Keep sweeping certificate as proof
- ✗ Wear: Normal wear and maintenance of the reed
- ✗ Intentional/recklessness: Damage due to intent or gross negligence
💡 Tips for Owners of Traditional Thatched Roof
- ✓ Sweep the chimney annually: By recognized company, keep certificate
- ✓ Check spark arrester: Annual cleaning and maintenance
- ✓ Fire-resistant plating: Plasterboard under roof rails = lower premium
- ✓ Smoke detectors in ridge: Early detection of roof fire
- ✓ Consider sprinkler: Modern systems in reed frosts
- ✓ Enable thatcher: Regular inspection and maintenance
Specialized Reed Insurers
These insurers accept traditional thatched roofs:
