Can I Get Home Insurance If I Live Next Door to a Commercial Property?

Yes, you can usually get home insurance if you live next to a commercial property. However, depending on the type of business and how close or connected the properties are, you may have fewer insurers to choose from or pay a higher premium.

Insurers may consider factors such as increased fire risk, customer footfall, security and the possibility of damage originating from the neighbouring premises.

If Your Home is Next Door to a Business

If you live in a house next to a shop, restaurant, takeaway or other commercial premises, it’s important to tell your insurer about the neighbouring business when asked.

Some mainstream insurers will still provide standard home insurance, while others may charge more or decline cover depending on the type of business.

If you’re struggling to find cover through standard insurers or comparison websites, a specialist home insurance broker may be able to help.

What If You Live Above a Shop?

If your home is above or forms part of the same building as a commercial property, insurance can become more complicated.

These properties are often considered mixed-use, meaning the building contains both residential and commercial premises.

If you own the entire building, you may need specialist mixed-use insurance covering both the residential and commercial parts of the property.

If you own or rent a flat within the building, responsibility for buildings insurance will depend on the ownership and lease arrangements. You may still need your own contents insurance to protect your belongings.

Always Tell Your Insurer

The most important thing is to provide your insurer with accurate information about the property and neighbouring businesses.

Don’t assume that living next to a commercial property means you can’t get home insurance. In many cases you can, but you may need to shop around or use a specialist provider to find suitable cover.

If you’re considering buying a property next to, above or connected to commercial premises, it’s worth checking insurance availability and costs before committing to the purchase.