A useful home insurance guide should explain the difference between building insurance, contents insurance and combined cover, and help you estimate the replacement value of your home and belongings. Check the policy’s inclusions, exclusions, limits, excesses and whether it covers risks relevant to your area, such as storm, flood or bushfire. Read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) carefully, particularly conditions about maintenance, security and unoccupied homes. Comparing policies can help, but the insurer will decide whether a claim is covered under its policy terms and your circumstances.