Fixtures are firmly attached home items like baths, while fittings are temporary such as curtains.
Building insurance usually protects fixtures whereas contents insurance covers fittings.
Make sure you select a home and contents insurance policy that covers both.
Everyone's heard of fixtures and fittings, but do you know what they really mean? The commonly used duo might seem alike, but they're actually two different things.
Fixtures: Items that are firmly attached to your home and difficult to remove.
Fittings: Temporarily attached to the property or free standing items which can be removed.
There are some exceptions to the rule though. For example, carpets are almost always considered fixtures. We recommend contacting your insurer directly if you need clarification.
Protect your fixtures and fittings with home insurance
Generally, building insurance protects fixtures and contents insurance protects fittings. All of the home insurance policies in the table below protect both.
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Fixtures are items that are firmly attached to your home. There are some exceptions to the rule but generally, you would not take fixtures with you if you decided to move home.
This type of policy will cover the physical structure of your home. This includes things like solar panels and your bathroom sink, but it won't include your fittings or contents.
This type of policy is more comprehensive since it will cover both your fixtures and fittings. It covers the physical structure of your house and the belongings you keep in it.
What are fittings?
Fittings are items that are freestanding or temporarily attached to your home. Generally, you would take fittings with you if you moved elsewhere. However, there is one major exception – fitted carpets. They are classed as fittings.
This policy can cover your fittings and other things you have around your home. Just keep in mind that it won't cover things that are permanently attached to your home, or the physical house itself.
A home and contents insurance policy is probably the more comprehensive option since it can cover both fittings and fixtures. This way, you don't have to figure out which is which.
Want to know more about insuring fixtures and fittings?
To accurately value your fixtures and fittings, you should estimate the replacement cost. This is how much it would cost to purchase new items of similar quality and install them today. For fixtures, consider professional installation costs. For fittings, make a detailed list and research current market prices. Always check your policy wording for specific valuation methods and speak with your insurer if you are unsure.
The classification can sometimes be tricky and depend on how permanently they are attached. Built-in wardrobes that are custom made and permanently fixed to the wall or floor are generally considered fixtures. Custom blinds that are easily removed and not integral to the structure are typically fittings. However, the definitive answer depends on your insurer's specific definition in your policy disclosure statement.
As a landlord you are generally responsible for insuring the fixtures of the property through a building insurance policy. This includes things like built-in kitchens, bathrooms and flooring. You may also need landlord contents insurance to cover fittings that you provide for your tenants use such as curtains, blinds or unfixed appliances like an oven.
As a renter you are generally responsible for insuring your own personal belongings which fall under the category of fittings. This includes your furniture, appliances, clothing and other movable items. The landlord is usually responsible for insuring the property's fixtures. It is highly recommended that renters take out contents insurance to protect their possessions.
Yes it is important to notify your insurer if you make significant improvements or additions to your home that involve new fixtures or high value fittings. Installing new solar panels renovating a bathroom or purchasing expensive freestanding appliances can increase the replacement value of your property. Updating your policy ensures you have adequate cover and helps prevent underinsurance in the event of a claim.
When you sell your home fixtures are generally included in the sale and remain with the property unless specifically excluded in the contract of sale. Fittings however are typically considered personal property and you would take them with you unless they are explicitly included in the sale contract. It is crucial to clearly define what is included or excluded in your sales agreement to avoid disputes. Your insurance coverage should reflect this until settlement is complete.
Nicola Middlemiss is a journalist with nearly a decade of experience in personal finance and insurance. She has contributed to Domain, Yahoo Finance, Money Magazine and Insurance Business Australia, offering in-depth insights into commercial insurance in the Australian market. Nicola holds a Bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Leeds and a Tier 1 General Insurance (General Advice) certification, which complies with ASIC standards.
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