# Buildings or contents — what falls under which?

> The distinction determines which insurance pays out. A simple rule of thumb gets you started.

*Gepubliceerd: 2026-06-08* · *Categorie: uitleg*

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In residential losses, much revolves around two insurances: buildings insurance and contents insurance. What falls under which determines which policy pays.

## The rule of thumb

**Buildings** = everything fixed to the building. **Contents** = everything that would come along if you turned the house upside down and shook it out.

## Buildings (the structure)

- Walls, roof, floors and foundations.
- Kitchen and bathroom fittings, tiling, pipework.
- Fitted floor coverings that are glued down, central-heating installation.

## Contents (the loose belongings)

- Furniture, curtains, clothing, electronics.
- Jewellery and other valuable loose items.
- Loose-laid floor coverings and free-standing lamps.

> **Please note** — In borderline cases (such as a built-in wardrobe or solar panels) it differs from policy to policy. In fire and water losses the two often run together — a proper assessment separates them carefully.