Home insurance is generally not a legal requirement in the UK, but your mortgage lender may require buildings insurance as a condition of borrowing. Contents insurance is usually optional, although it can help cover belongings against risks such as theft, fire or escape of water. If you rent, your landlord normally arranges buildings cover, while tenants may choose their own contents insurance and liability cover. Check your mortgage or tenancy agreement and compare policy exclusions, excesses and cover limits before deciding.