Diwali fire safety: How home insurance works, what it covers and how to protect your home from accidental fire damage

Diwali celebrations can increase the risk of fires from diyas, candles, firecrackers and electrical faults. Here's how to financially protect yourself from such incidents.

Diwali is around the corner and homes across the country are getting ready to light up diyas (small oil lamps) and fairy light, while celebrations will be accompanied by firecrackers. However, the festive season also brings the risk of accidental fires caused by electrical short circuits, firecrackers or unattended diyas and candles, particularly when residents step out of their homes.

In such circumstances, having a home insurance policy can offer financial protection against unexpected damage to your property and belongings. While it cannot prevent such incidents, the right policy can help you manage the financial burden of repairs and replacement if an unfortunate event occurs.

What does a home insurance plan usually cover?

A home insurance policy, with premiums starting as low as ₹18 per month, can cover both structural damage and loss or damage to household contents caused by fire, subject to the policy's terms and conditions.

• Building cover: Protects the insured structure, including walls, ceilings, floors, doors and other covered structural components.
• Contents cover: Protects household belongings such as furniture, appliances, electronic devices, clothing and other insured personal possessions.

Some policies also cover additional expenses like temporary accommodation or loss of rent, subject to policy terms, if the house becomes uninhabitable, said Ashwini Dubey, Business Head of Home Insurance at Policybazaar.