TAKE TIME OUT TO WORK THROUGH OUR CHECKLIST

Work out what it would cost to replace everything that you care about if it was lost before seeing if insurance is worthwhile for you. Don’t bother with clothes you rarely or never wear or that pile of DVDs you never play.

If you buy insurance, you will have to cover everything in your home including items you won’t want to replace. Otherwise, your company will say you have “under-insured” and might not pay out the correct amount.

Policies can cover items such as mobile phones, laptops, bicycles or jewellery which are regularly used outside the home. This can be better value than buying separate cover. But always check first.

Update cover regularly. Most of us acquire more over time, not less.

Some insurers offer automatic upgrades over Christmas when you might have expensive presents at home.

Expect to pay more if you live in a flood risk area – and if you have had frequent claims.

Which? has a free guide to home and mobile insurance on its website with reviews of recommended cover companies.