Conversion Insurance
A conversion project combines the charm of an existing structure with the complexity of major building works. The retained existing element - whether a barn, commercial building or derelict structure - is central to the risk. Protek conversion insurance covers both the existing retained structure and all new conversion works, ensuring you’re fully protected from the moment works begin.
WHY IT MATTERS
Protect your conversion from the moment you exchange contracts
Conversion insurance should be in place from the moment you exchange contracts on the property. Unlike a new build, a conversion involves an existing structure whose professional reinstatement value must be factored into the cover - not just the build cost. Underinsurance at the point of claim can have serious consequences.
Protek covers both the existing retained structure and all new conversion works. Public liability and employers’ liability are automatically included. The policy continues until the works are complete and the property is taken into full use.
WHAT’S COVERED
The existing building being converted - including any semi-derelict or partially collapsed elements - covered at full reinstatement value
All new works, temporary works and materials on site throughout the project
Injury to contractors, visitors or neighbours - included as standard
Owned and hired-in plant including ongoing hire charges if stolen or damaged
Remote and derelict sites carry extra risk - cover includes theft of materials and vandal damage
WHY YOU NEED IT
It's not just the new works you need to insure
Conversion projects carry risks that are often underestimated. The existing retained structure is typically the biggest single element of the reinstatement value - and if it’s not properly covered, a major loss could leave you significantly out of pocket. Remote or derelict sites also attract vandalism and theft. Here’s what can go wrong - and why it’s just not worth leaving your project uninsured.
Fire, Flood and Structural Collapse
Derelict and semi-derelict structures carry inherent structural risk. Major losses like fire or collapse can happen at any stage - Protek covers both the retained structure and new works.
Theft and Vandalism
Remote conversion sites are particularly vulnerable. A hired mini digger can cost £16,000+ to replace, and you may remain liable for ongoing hire charges even after it's stolen.
Injury and Liability Claims
Building sites are hazardous. Injury to contractors, visitors or neighbours could become your legal responsibility - public and employers' liability is included as standard.
COVER THAT FITS YOUR PROJECT
Cover that fits your conversion project
Your project may take shape in a variety of different ways. Irrespective of your chosen build route, Protek has a solution for you.
Barn and Agricultural Conversion
Converting a barn, farm building or agricultural structure? Protek specialises in this type of conversion and can cover the full reinstatement value of the existing retained structure.
Commercial to Residential
Converting a former office, school, chapel or commercial building? We cover every type of conversion project, however complex the existing structure.
Derelict and Unusual Structures
Lighthouses, follies, derelict bothies - if you've seen it on TV, Protek can cover it. We specialise in unusual conversions where standard insurers won't go.
Contractor-Led Conversion
Using a main contractor to manage the works? Even with a contractor on site, the existing retained structure is often your responsibility to insure - Protek covers both clearly.
Ready to protect your project?
Get a full quote online in minutes - tailored to your conversion type and total reinstatement value.
GETTING COVERED
Straightforward to arrange
Our team has many years’ experience helping people get the right cover in place for their conversion project. We’ve designed our conversion insurance to be flexible on cover duration and product options, while remaining comprehensive and competitively priced. If you’re unsure whether your contractor’s insurance covers the existing retained structure - it almost certainly doesn’t. Call us on 0333 456 8030 and we’ll talk you through it.
Get a quote online
Answer a few quick questions about your conversion type, reinstatement value and duration - and get a full quote in minutes.
Get a quote ›Tailor your cover
Choose the level of cover that fits your conversion and budget. Select only what you need - existing structure, new works, liability, plant cover - and nothing you don’t.
Build with confidence
Receive your policy documents and begin your build knowing your project is protected from day one. Need to extend because your build is running over? Protek offers flexible short-term extensions.
Get started ›FREE RESOURCES
Download our free guides
Not sure what cover you need? Our guides explain your options in plain English - no jargon, no obligation.
FREE PDF GUIDE
Conversion Insurance Guide for Homeowners
A clear overview of the conversion insurance and structural warranty products available through Protek - what they cover, when you need them, and how they work together to protect your project.
Download Free GuideFREE PDF GUIDE
Essential Guide to Insuring Your Conversion
Everything you need to know about insuring a conversion project - from reinstatement value and underinsurance to structural warranties and liability cover.
Download Free Guide
THE EXPERIENCED PROVIDER
The experienced conversion insurer you can rely on
The dedicated team at Protek have 10 years of combined experience in specialist construction insurance, including some of the most complex and unusual conversion projects in the UK. We work with an A-Rated insurer to deliver cover that genuinely protects your project - from the most straightforward barn conversion to the most unusual structure imaginable.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently asked questions
When does conversion insurance need to be in place?
Cover should be in place from the moment you exchange contracts on the property - before any works begin. It must continue until the project is fully completed and taken into use.
Do I insure at build cost or reinstatement value?
Always at professional reinstatement value - not your build cost. This is particularly important for conversions, where the existing retained structure (even if semi-derelict) forms a significant part of the total value. Underinsuring can leave you seriously out of pocket at the point of claim.
Will my contractor's insurance cover the existing structure?
Almost certainly not. A contractor’s public liability insurance covers their own liability - it does not cover damage to the existing property or retained structure. That responsibility typically rests with you as the owner.
Can you cover unusual or derelict structures?
Yes - this is one of Protek’s specialisms. We cover barn conversions, commercial-to-residential projects, lighthouses, follies, derelict bothies and other unusual structures that standard insurers won’t touch. If you’ve seen it on TV, we’ve probably covered it.
What if my project runs over schedule?
Protek offers flexible cover periods from 3 months to 2 years. If your conversion runs over schedule, cover can be extended so you’re never left uninsured. We recommend building in some contingency at the outset.
Do I need employers' liability cover?
Yes, if you’re directly engaging any workers - even casually. Employers’ liability is a legal requirement in this situation and is automatically included as standard in the Protek conversion insurance policy.
COMPLETE YOUR COVER
Don't forget - you'll also need a structural warranty
A structural warranty covers the property for 10 years against defects in design, workmanship, materials and components. Your lender will require one - mainly because it helps secure their lending risk on your project.
Protek provides both products, so you can arrange everything in one place. Our structural warranty has been designed specifically for conversion projects and is accepted by UK banks and building societies.
10-Year Structural Warranty
Required by most mortgage lenders. Covers major structural defects for 10 years after completion.
Self-Build Mortgage Support
Protek’s policies meet lender requirements for staged-release mortgages - making your application straightforward.
Policy Summary
All conversion insurance cover information at a glance - exactly what is and isn’t included in the policy.
Your build deserves proper protection.
Get a full quote online in minutes - or call our specialist team on 0333 456 8030.
Get a Free Quote 0333 456 8030
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