Fire risk · requirements · premium
Insuring a thatched roof
Thatch burns quickly and from the outside. That makes acceptance stricter and the premium higher than for a tiled roof.
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Why the risk is different
A thatched roof catches fire from the outside, for example from sparks out of a chimney or from fireworks. Once alight, it is almost impossible to extinguish.
Insurers therefore look at the distance to neighbouring buildings, whether there is a chimney and the condition of the thatch.
Which requirements apply
Almost always a spark arrester on the chimney and periodic chimney sweeping with proof.
On newer roofs, often a fire-resisting layer under the thatch, and sometimes requirements for lightning protection.
Those requirements appear as a clause on your policy. If you do not meet them at the time of a fire, the payment can be reduced.
Maintenance and service life
Thatch lasts thirty to forty years, but its condition determines acceptance. Have it assessed periodically and keep the reports.
A worn roof can be a reason to refuse or restrict own-damage cover.
What you can do
Keep the sweeping certificates for your chimney; they are the first thing asked for after a fire. And report it if you install a wood burner — that changes the risk materially.
Read more
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Frequently asked questions
The questions we are asked most often about this.
Why is a thatched roof more expensive?
Thatch catches fire from the outside and, once alight, is barely possible to extinguish.
What requirements do insurers set?
Usually a spark arrester and periodic chimney sweeping with proof.
What if I do not meet the clause?
The payment on a fire claim can then be reduced or refused.
Do I have to report a wood burner?
Yes; it changes the fire risk materially.
How long does thatch last?
Thirty to forty years; its condition determines acceptance.
What is best to keep?
The sweeping certificates for your chimney; they are the first thing asked for after a fire.
What is covered and what is not
What is covered
| Situation | Extended | Comprehensive |
|---|---|---|
| Fireworks land on the thatch at New Year and the roof catches fire | Yes | Yes |
| A lightning strike sets the ridge alight | Yes | Yes |
| While pruning, you drop a branch on the roof yourself and the thatch layer splits open | No | Yes |
| A plumber uses a blowtorch on the lead flashing and the thatch catches fire | Provided that | Provided that |
| Birds pull bundles of thatch out of the roof for nesting material | No | No |
| After wet summers the north side becomes overgrown with moss and the top layer decays | No | No |
Fire from outside is precisely the risk you insure against; anything that attacks the thatch slowly remains maintenance.