Many of us buy buildings and/or contents cover and assume that everything is covered. It's only when we need to make a claim that we might discover an exclusion written into the policy that means we have to foot the bill.

The only way to be certain is to read through your policy and know what is covered and what is not. There are many things that your policy may not cover, and knowing what they before you claim can give you the opportunity to switch insurers or take extra precautions to prevent losses.

To get you started, the seven items below are generally not covered by most home insurance policies.

- Damage from general wear and tear on your belongings or home

Insurance is meant to cover you for unexpected losses, not from general wear and tear. If damage results to your property due to age or general wear and tear rather than from an unexpected incident, your insurance will probably not cover it. Check your policy today.

- Damage that results from negligence of your property

You're expected to take reasonable care of your property. If you don't perform proper maintenance and damage results, your insurance policy may not pay out. Likewise, your policy may not pay out if you attempt repairs yourself on items that require professional attention. You may, for instance, find yourself without cover if you performed DIY electrical repairs or expansions and a fire resulted. Check you policy to be sure.

- Failure to secure your property may result in no cover for losses

Along the same vein as negligence in caring for your property is negligence in securing your property. Your insurer expects that you will use locks and alarms to secure your property and protect it from thieves and vandals. If you fail to do so, or do so inadequately, your claim for replacement or repair may be denied. Contact your insurer for confirmation.

- If your home is in a flood or subsidence risk area, you may not be covered

Insurers try to limit their liabilities, so they'll nearly always exclude damage from disasters that could be foreseen. If your home is in a high-risk area for flooding, you'll have trouble finding cover for flood damage. Likewise, if you're in a subsidence risk area, you may find it difficult or have to pay high premiums for cover for damage due to subsidence. Check with your insurer.

- Damage or loss that occurred before the cover commences

It should go without saying, since it's common sense. Damage or loss to your property that occurs before your insurance cover commences will not be covered by your insurance policy.

- Damage, loss or expense that results from any of the following...

Radioactive contamination, acts of war, terrorism, pollution, contamination, invasion or civil war. A standard clause in most homeowner insurance policies excludes damage resulting from acts of war, terrorism and other aggressive acts, as well as pollution and contamination.

- Deliberate damage or vandalism caused by you, your family or any person who is lawfully in your home

Your insurer expects that you will control those who live in your home and visit your home. Deliberate acts of vandalism, including arson, by someone who is in your home with your permission will not be covered by your homeowner insurance.

In addition to these, any claim may be denied if you have not informed your insurer of any changes that may affect your policy. Contact your insurance company and confirm your obligations and the effect on your policy.