Does Contents Insurance Cover Washing Machines?
Find out when contents insurance picks up the bill for your washing machine.
Contents insurance usually covers your washing machine, but only when the damage is caused by something sudden and unexpected, like a fire, a flood, or a break-in. If it’s stopped working because it’s old or you haven’t kept up with maintenance, your insurer won’t pay out. Here’s what you need to know.
At a glance
- Contents insurance typically covers your washing machine against insured events like fire, theft, and water damage.
- Wear and tear, mechanical breakdowns, and neglect are excluded. That’s on you.
- Accidental damage cover isn’t always included as standard. It’s usually an add-on worth considering.
- Your cover will vary by provider, so reading your policy documents is key.
When does contents insurance cover washing machines?
Let’s clear this up first. Contents insurance is designed to cover the belongings in your home, from your sofa to your laptop-and yes, that includes your washing machine. Essentially, if you could pick it up and take it with you when you move, it’s classed as contents. Your policy steps in when things are damaged, stolen, or destroyed due to various risks, like fire or burglary.
What types of damage are covered?
A standard Lemonade contents insurance policy covers your washing machine against a range of unexpected events. Here’s a closer look:
Fire damage
If your washing machine is damaged or destroyed in a house fire, your contents insurance will cover the cost of repair or replacement. Report the incident quickly and gather as much evidence as you can.
Theft and burglary
Your base policy covers straightforward cases of robbery or burglary inside your home. If someone breaks in and damages your appliances, or makes off with them, you’re covered.
Water damage
Sudden water damage, say from a burst pipe or an unexpected flood, is typically covered. If the damage crept in gradually due to poor maintenance or a known issue you didn’t address, your insurer is unlikely to pay out.
Accidental damage
This is where things get a bit more nuanced. Imagine dropping something heavy on your Miele or LG during a weekend DIY session. That kind of mishap isn’t covered under a standard policy, but with Lemonade’s Accidental Damage add-on, you would be. It covers sudden and unexpected damage, even if it’s your fault. Just note: this add-on doesn’t apply to mobile devices or gadgets like smartphones, laptops, or tablets.
When your washing machine damage isn’t covered
Here’s the bit you don’t want to miss. While your washing machine is generally included, there are limits, such as:
- Wear and tear: If your Hotpoint or Siemens stops working because it’s old or has been run into the ground, that’s not what insurance is for.
- Mechanical faults: Breakdowns due to failed parts won’t be included. This is where manufacturer warranties or separate appliance care plans come in handy.
- Negligence: Damage caused by misuse or failing to maintain your washing machine properly also won’t make the cut.
Basically, Lemonade contents insurance protects your washing machine from unexpected events but not from the inevitabilities of everyday use or poor upkeep.
What add-ons should you consider?
Lemonade offers a handful of add-ons that can give your washing machine (and everything else) a bit more protection:
- Accidental Damage cover: Covers sudden, unexpected damage to your belongings, even if you caused it. Spilt something on your AEG? Knocked your Beko during a move? You’re sorted. (Excludes mobile devices and gadgets.)
- Home Emergency cover: Available to homeowners, whether you have Buildings and Contents cover, or a Buildings-only policy. This add-on gives you access to a 24/7 emergency helpline for urgent home issues like a broken boiler, electrical failures, or a burst pipe. It won’t cover a washing machine breakdown specifically, but it’s worth having in your back pocket when the unexpected hits elsewhere in the home. Please note: this add-on isn’t available to tenants.
How to make a claim
If something happens to your washing machine, here’s how to handle it:
- Check your policy. Confirm the damage or loss is covered before you do anything else.
- Document everything. Photos, videos, receipts. The more evidence, the better.
- Report it quickly. Contact your insurer as soon as possible. Delays can affect your claim.
- Hold off on permanent repairs. Wait for your insurer’s go-ahead before getting anything fixed, unless it’s an emergency.
With Lemonade, you can file a claim straight through the app with no lengthy phone calls, no mountains of paperwork. Just a quick, straightforward process so you can get back to your laundry.
Before we go
Your washing machine is a vital part of daily life, and the right contents insurance can protect it from unexpected events. Just remember to check what’s included in your policy and consider add-ons like accidental damage if needed. When the time comes for a claim, having a tech-savvy insurer like Lemonade can make the process a breeze-so you can get back to your laundry in no time.
Washing machine insurance FAQs
Does contents insurance cover all appliances?
Generally, yes. A standard contents insurance policy typically covers household appliances, including washing machines, fridges, and ovens, against insured events like fire, theft, and sudden water damage. Wear and tear and mechanical faults aren’t covered though.
Do I need accidental damage cover for my washing machine?
If you want protection against mishaps like dropping something on it or causing damage during a DIY project, then yes, it’s worth adding. Lemonade’s Accidental Damage add-on covers sudden, unexpected damage, even if it’s your fault.
How do I claim for a broken washing machine?
Report the incident to your insurer as soon as possible, provide photos and proof of ownership, and follow their claims process. With Lemonade, you can do all of this through the app.
Does insurance cover new-for-old replacements?
Some policies replace old items with brand new equivalents, but it varies by provider. Check your policy documents or ask your insurer directly to confirm what you’re entitled to.
Is flood or water damage covered?
Sudden water damage from an unexpected event like a burst pipe is typically covered. Gradual water damage caused by ongoing issues or poor maintenance usually isn’t.
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