Complicated is out

No, this policy will no longer be available as we’re phasing out old policies and moving customers to our latest cover. We’re recommending you move to our Contents Standard Cover as this is our closest match to your current policy. However, we also have other options that may suit you better. 

See our policy comparison table to see what these key changes are, and what’s staying the same.

The Contents Standard Cover is similar to your current policy but there are some differences, such as these new benefits:

• Cover for gradual damage to your contents.
• Cover for your computer/laptop and bicycle.
• Cover for temporary accommodation expenses has increased from $5,000 to $15,000.
• All your contents will now be covered for replacement value, regardless of age. This means if any of your contents are damaged and can’t be repaired, we’ll replace them with new ones.

Some cover has been reduced:

• Cover for your mobile phone is now limited to $500, unless otherwise specified.
• Some damage caused by domestic pets is no longer covered.

As in any other year, your premium may change depending on several factors. For example, on 1 July 2019, the Earthquake Commission made some changes that may have affected your premium.  

You’ll see your premium in your renewal email which you’ll receive shortly. Find out more about how your premium is calculated.

The excess is the amount you need to pay toward any loss when you make a claim and it’s approved. Tower then ‘tops up’ your contribution, up to your policy limit.

When you move to your new policy, your excess may change and it’s important to check it and make sure it’s right for you. If excess refund is part of your current policy, you'll notice that it's not offered on your new policy. This means that you'll now pay an excess if you make a claim. Our latest house policies give you a choice of excesses, ranging from $400 to $2,500.

The amount of excess you choose for your policy will affect the premium you pay - the higher your excess, the cheaper your premium. As well as considering the premium, it’s also important to think about whether you will be able to afford to pay the excess if you happen to have a claim.

As you move to our latest cover at renewal you’ll also have a new unique policy number for each of your policies. Remember to use this policy number as your reference when you contact us or make a payment for this policy. You’ll find your policy number on the top right hand corner of your new insurance documents.

Please make sure you read it carefully and check;

• your excess, as it may have changed,
• your contents sum insured, to make sure it’s right for you. Estimate the value of your contents.

Find out more about our journey to better.