Millions of UK homes remain uninsured as more people go without cover, according to research from Go.Compare home insurance.
Research found 32% of people did not have a contents policy, 61% were insured and 8% were unsure.
Younger adults were less likely to be covered, with 44% of 16 to 24-year-olds and 36% of 25 to 34-year-olds saying they did not have contents insurance, compared to 21% of over-55s.
In 2022, 26% said they had no cover, increasing to 32% in 2025.
Among those who went without, 47% said the cost was too high, 33% believed they did not own enough to justify it, and 12% cancelled to save money.
A typical contents policy insures about £30,000 worth of belongings.
The median annual premium was £63, with some paying as little as £43 a year.
Nathan Blackler, Go.Compare home insurance spokesperson, said: “It’s worrying to see more people going without contents cover, especially as contents insurance can cost less than £5 a month and protects thousands of pounds’ worth of belongings.
“Our research found that a third of people (33%) don’t think they own enough to justify taking out contents cover – but it’s common for people to underestimate how much it would cost to replace everything they own.
“If your furniture, tech or clothes were damaged in a fire or stolen, could you afford to replace them?”
Blackler added: “Taking stock of what you own and comparing quotes can help you find affordable cover that suits your needs.
“You can often tailor your policy by removing extras you don’t need, which can help bring the cost down.
“Make sure to compare all your options online, as that way you can be certain you’re getting the right cover for the best available price.”
Blackler also advised people to value their contents carefully by making a list of possessions and calculating their worth.
He said it is important to check for accidental damage cover, as this is a common reason for claims but not always included as standard.
Blackler added that higher-value items like jewellery or bikes may need to be insured separately if they exceed the single item limit.
He suggested reviewing existing cover, as gadgets or bikes might already be insured through bank accounts or phone plans, and to check before doubling up on cover.
Additionally, he said shoppers should not auto-renew without comparing quotes, as considering all options could save money.
