Get ready for National Home Security Week

For those due to renew their home insurance soon or for those without it, National Home Security Week (19 October 2009 to 25 October 2009) is a good reminder of why no home should be without it. It is a perfect time to start shopping around for the best deals.

These days, price comparison websites are used by some consumers to compare the costs of different insurance providers. When doing so, it's possible for consumers to be engrossed in the cost, searching away for the cheapest deals and forgetting about other things that should be considered when taking out insurance. Consumers should check out which items or situations the insurance specifically covers and whether it offers the ability to pay in manageable instalments. This is worth noting because policy features can be just as important as cost.

With Nationwide's 5-Star rated buildings and contents home insurance - which isn't available on price comparison websites - customers can rest assured that they are getting a great product and a great service. What's more, extra value is also on offer because the Society currently provides 20% off now and 20% off next year when purchasing and renewing buildings and contents cover together. There is also an extra 10% off this year's premium if purchased online - this discount will be deducted consecutively from the premium once other discounts have been applied. Furthermore, Nationwide's main FlexAccount customers receive an extra £20 off the premium in the first year if the application is made in a branch or over the phone.

Standard features of Nationwide's home insurance include:

No extra charge for paying monthly by Direct Debit;
The cost of temporary accommodation if the home becomes uninhabitable due to insured damage;
Unlimited buildings cover for eligible properties;
Up to £1,000 cover for contents in the garden and up to £500 cover for plants in the garden;
Cover for accidental damage to home entertainment equipment;
Up to £500 cover for the spoiled contents of the fridge and freezer;
Up to £1,000 cover for the cost of replacing downloaded information, lost due to an insured peril;
Cover for students' belongings while at university or college (up to sum insured).

John Baker, Nationwide's head of general insurance, said: "When customers approach their insurance renewal dates, it's important they make sure they get a good deal on a policy as well as one that has all the features they are looking for. Once you combine our 5-Star home insurance with our ‘20% off now and 20% off next year' deal, customers can rest assured that they are not only getting great cover but also long-term value."

As the winter months draw closer and the threat of poorer weather becomes greater, the optional extra of 24 hour Home Emergency Assistance for only £4.50 a month may be a good choice. Other optional extras at an additional premium for those customers wishing to tailor their home insurance to suit their individual needs include:

Up to £50,000 Legal Assistance for just £1.75 per month;
Cover for accidental damage;
Cover for personal possessions away from the home.