Do you know that not all houses are built the same? Some do not even fall into standard insurance categories! If your house contains timber, concrete panels, steel frames, or glass walls, it may be classified as Non-Standard Construction. This can influence everything from building costs to getting the right insurance. In this guide, we will keep it simple: what Non-Standard Construction means, the materials used, and why it matters.
1. What Exactly Is Non-Standard Construction and How Does It Work?
Not all houses are the same, and some don't fit into regular insurance categories. If a home is made with materials like timber frames, concrete panels, or steel structures, it's called Non-Standard Construction. This matters because insurers see these homes differently from traditional brick houses. For instance, a timber-framed house could be more vulnerable to fire or moisture damage. A concrete-panel home? If cracks start forming, repairs can be expensive. These issues also influence the costs of insurance policies and make it harder to find the right one. Consider prefabricated homes—they are built off-site and quickly assembled. They are convenient, but insurers may see them as higher-risk, leading to greater premiums or extra insurance requirements. If you own or plan to buy a Non-Standard Construction home, check how different insurers handle these properties. Knowing what your home is made of can help you avoid unexpected insurance challenges. Learn more about What is Homeowners Insurance? to understand how standard policies differ.
2. Types of Non-Standard Construction
Homes come in different shapes, sizes, and materials. Some don’t fit the usual construction standards, which can affect everything from durability to maintenance. Here are some common types:
Type
Description
Timber-Framed
Lightweight and flexible, but can be more prone to fire and moisture issues.
Concrete Panels
Strong and durable, but cracks can lead to expensive repairs.
Steel-Framed
Resistant to pests and rot, but may have insulation challenges.
Prefabricated Homes
Built off-site and assembled quickly, but may have structural differences.
Note: Some older homes built with non-standard materials may require higher maintenance costs. Always check structural reports before purchase!
Knowing these types helps in understanding how different homes are built and maintained. If you’re a landlord, you might also want to explore What is Landlord Insurance? to protect your rental property.
3. Comparison of Non-Standard Construction Plans
Not all Non-Standard Construction plans are the same. Some offer basic protection, while others cover more risks, like structural repairs or weather damage. Here’s a breakdown of different plans and what they include.
Basic vs. Comprehensive Plans
Feature
Basic Plan
Comprehensive Plan
Property Damage
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
Fire & Flood Coverage
❌ No
✅ Yes
Structural Repairs
❌ No
✅ Yes
Alternative Housing
❌ No
✅ Yes
Higher Premiums
❌ No
✅ Yes
A basic plan covers the essentials but may not protect against all types of damage. A comprehensive plan includes more coverage but comes at a higher cost.
Coverage by Home Type
Home Type
Insurance Availability
Additional Costs
Timber Frame
Limited options
High
Concrete Panel
Moderate options
Medium
Prefabricated Home
Fewer options
High
Steel Structure
Limited options
Medium
The type of construction affects the availability and cost of insurance. Some homes may need special policies.
Common Add-Ons
Add-On
What It Covers
Weather Protection
Covers storm, flood, or extreme weather damage
Extended Liability
Protects against legal claims related to property damage
Temporary Housing
Pays for rental costs if the home becomes unlivable
Adding extra coverage can increase protection but may also raise the insurance cost.
Average Cost by Plan Type
Plan Type
Monthly Cost
Basic
$30 – $60
Comprehensive
$80 – $200
With Add-Ons
Varies
The cost depends on coverage level and property type. Comparing plans helps find one that fits your property’s needs while keeping costs manageable.
4. Differences with Other Insurances
Not all insurance works the same way. Here’s how Non-Standard Construction insurance compares to other common types.
Insurance Type
What It Covers
Who It’s For
Non-Standard Construction
Homes made with unusual materials like timber, concrete panels, or steel
Owners of non-traditional homes
Homeowners Insurance
Standard brick-and-mortar homes, fire, theft, and some damages
Traditional homeowners
Renter’s Insurance
Tenant’s personal belongings and liability
Renters in leased properties
Commercial Property Insurance
Business buildings, inventory, and equipment damage
Business owners
Note: If your home has a mix of standard and non-standard materials, you may need a hybrid insurance plan.
Each insurance type serves a different purpose. Knowing which one applies to your home helps in making the right choice.
5. Who Should Buy Non-Standard Construction?
Not sure if Non-Standard Construction insurance is for you? Here’s who might need it the most.
Who Needs It
Why It Matters
Homeowners with Unique Materials
Some materials, like timber or steel, may need special insurance.
Landlords with Non-Standard Homes
Protects rental properties built with unusual materials.
Prefab & Modular Homeowners
These homes have different structures that insurers assess differently.
Older Property Owners
Some older homes don’t meet modern building standards.
Buyers of Unusual Designs
Glass walls, eco-homes, and custom structures may need tailored insurance.
If your home falls into one of these categories, checking insurance options early is a smart move.
6. How to Choose the Right Non-Standard Construction?
Choosing the right Non-Standard Construction insurance isn’t complicated if you know what to look for. Here’s a breakdown of key factors that can help you pick a policy that fits your property.
Factor
Why It Matters
What to Check
Building Materials
Insurers assess risk based on materials used, like timber, steel, or concrete panels.
Confirm how your home's materials impact coverage and pricing.
Structural Features
Some unique designs or building methods may need specialized policies.
Check if your insurer covers homes with unusual designs or extensions.
Location & Weather Risks
Homes in flood zones, coastal areas, or high-wind regions may have limited options.
Look for policies that include protection against local environmental factors.
Standard vs. Specialized Providers
Not all insurance companies cover non-standard homes. Some specialize in them.
Compare general insurers with those focused on non-standard properties.
Repair & Replacement Costs
Unusual materials may be expensive or harder to replace.
Make sure your policy covers full rebuilding costs if needed.
Exclusions & Restrictions
Some policies don’t cover all damages or require extra conditions.
Read the fine print for exclusions and special requirements.
Premium Costs
Rates can vary widely based on materials, location, and provider.
Get multiple quotes to find a balance between price and coverage.
Add-On Options
Some policies let you add protection for specific risks.
Ask about extra coverage for things like floods or accidental damage.
Claims Process
A slow or complicated process can be frustrating.
Choose an insurer known for a straightforward claims process.
Comparing different insurers and understanding these points can help you get a policy that works best for your Non-Standard Construction home.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Non-Standard Construction insurance is all about knowing your home and exploring your options. As these homes are not covered under standard insurance policies, it is very important to compare policies, see what's covered, and check the costs. Every house is unique, and insurance firms treat them differently. Some policies favor timber-framed houses, while others work well for prefabricated homes. Finding the right company and asking the right questions can save you from trouble in the long run. Ultimately, the goal is to find insurance that matches your home's design and possible risks. For a deeper dive into Non-Standard Construction, check out this complete guide on non-standard construction.
