More than a third of UK homeowners don't bother to read their insurance documents according to research by Tesco Home Insurance.

The study found that 34% of policyholders prefer to leave these important documents languishing in a drawer rather than familiarise themselves with the terms and conditions of their cover. Of those questioned, 41% admit that their home contents cover limit might not be adequate because they've never checked their policy.

Head of Tesco Home Insurance, Allan Burns, said: "We would urge all homeowners to read through their policy documents to understand the terms and conditions of the policy they have purchased. If they are unsure of any element of the cover they should contact their insurer for advice."

Tesco also found that over a third (36%) could discover that they aren't insured for valued possessions such as engagement rings or expensive watches, as they have never checked the individual article limit on their policy after splashing out on valuable items. Nearly one in five (19%) may also be neglecting important elements of their home insurance by only searching for the cheapest policy and not taking cover limits into account.

Allan Burns continues: "It's important to be practical about how you protect high value possessions to avoid any confusion or disappointment if you need to claim. Check your insurer's individual article limits and if the price of any valuable item exceeds this then specify it on your policy."

In a bid to help consumers find the right cover for them Tesco Home Insurance offers the following ten tips:

1. Know what you need, buildings and contents cover or just contents only.


2. Consider buying buildings and contents cover together as this can offer better value than buying from separet providers.


3. Remember to compare like with like when you're shopping around for the best price. Check that the policy limits and level of cover are suitable for your circumstances as not all policies are the same.


4. Specify any valuables worth more than your insurers individual article limit.


5. Read your policy documents as soon as they arrive. Check for any errors and that the cover still meets your needs. If you're in any doubt contact your insurer.


6. Write down a list of your home contents and how much they're worth in total to make sure you're not underinsured.


7. Remember to keep your insurance company updated with any changes that might have an impact on your policy.


8. Consider adding personal belongings insurance to cover you while you're out of your home. It could prove to be a false economy leaving it off your policy.


9. Also think about buying family legal protection as this could save you hundreds of pounds.


10. Another useful option to consider is accidental damage cover.