One such aspect that might escape notice until it's too late is insurance. In a landscape where tiny houses are more than just homes—they are dreams on wheels—ensuring these dreams are protected is paramount. Here's what you need to know.
Is It a House or a Caravan?
For insurance purposes, a pivotal decision is whether to insure your tiny house as a 'house' or a 'caravan'. If it's a house in the insurer's eyes, it needs the necessary consents: fixed foundations and either a code of compliance or certificate of acceptance. Do remember that a house insurance policy won’t cover towing. If you're relocating your tiny home, you will also need transportation insurance. However, for most mobile tiny homes, caravan insurance might be your best option—even if you never intend to hitch it up and drive away.
Be Mindful of These Two Key Points:
DIY Builds May Not Qualify: If your tiny house is a labour of love, built by you, it might be trickier to insure. Many providers only cover professionally built tiny homes. However, there are exceptions but always get these in writing.
Full-time Living vs part-time Living: Most caravan and insurance policies cover part-time living, not full-timers. If you're making your tiny house your permanent home, ensure your policy covers that. We recommend working with an experienced broker who specialised in providing Tiny House Insurance, it will save you time and potential headaches.
Contents Insurance
Your tiny house isn't just walls and a roof—it's also what's inside. It’s important to check if your policy covers your contents, especially if you don’t have a fixed address. Some providers offer coverage for both the house and its contents.
Transparency is Key
Your relationship with your insurance company is a two-way street. Be transparent and detailed about your tiny home's specifications. Adjusters are trained to spot discrepancies. If your home isn't as described, you might find your claim denied.
Planning Ahead: The Insurance Step
Before you start building, find an insurance provider. Their guidelines can be invaluable, ensuring you don't inadvertently design an uninsurable tiny home.
Airbnb Tiny Home Insurance
If you're converting your tiny home into a guest haven, you'll need specific insurance that recognises this commercial activity.
Insurance Providers in the Mix
Selecting an insurance provider is pivotal. To ensure your transition to tiny living in NZ is seamless and secure, check out our free guide “Insurance for Tiny Houses on Wheels: A Must Read Guide for every owner” While our free guide offers a breakdown of insurers that cover tiny homes on wheels, always verify the latest details directly from them.
