If your kitchen has been damaged by a flood, fire, burst pipe, or other insured event, there is a good chance your insurance will cover the cost of a temporary kitchen. Many homeowners do not realise this — and end up living off microwaves and takeaways for weeks when they did not need to.
This guide explains exactly what is covered, how to make the claim, and how to get a temporary kitchen set up as quickly as possible.
The Short Answer
Yes — most buildings and contents insurance policies include a provision called alternative accommodation cover or loss of use cover. This is designed to pay for reasonable living expenses when your home is uninhabitable or partially unusable due to an insured event.
A temporary kitchen — typically a self-contained pod delivered to your driveway or installed inside your home — is increasingly recognised by insurers as a cost-effective alternative to putting a family up in a hotel or rental property.
Think about it from the insurer's perspective: paying £100-£200 per week for a kitchen pod is significantly cheaper than paying £150+ per night for a hotel for a family of four. Many insurers actively prefer this option.
What Events Are Typically Covered?
Insurance will generally cover a temporary kitchen if your kitchen has been put out of action by:
- Flood damage — burst pipes, rainwater ingress, or rising water
- Fire damage — whether from a kitchen fire or fire elsewhere in the property
- Storm damage — roof leaks, fallen trees, or structural damage affecting the kitchen
- Escape of water — leaking appliances, failed plumbing, or tank overflows
- Subsidence — in some cases where structural repairs affect the kitchen
- Accidental damage — if you have accidental damage cover on your policy
The key requirement is that the damage must be caused by an insured peril — something specifically listed in your policy. Damage from general wear and tear, poor maintenance, or gradual deterioration is not covered.
What Is NOT Covered?
Your insurance will almost certainly not pay for a temporary kitchen if:
- You are renovating your kitchen by choice (this is planned, not an insured event)
- The damage was caused by lack of maintenance (e.g. a slow leak you ignored)
- You do not have alternative accommodation cover on your policy (check your documents)
- The event that caused the damage is excluded from your policy
If you are renovating by choice, a temporary kitchen is still very affordable to hire privately — but you will be paying out of pocket.
How to Make the Claim: Step by Step
Step 1: Report the damage to your insurer immediately. Call your insurer's claims line as soon as the damage happens. The sooner you report, the sooner they can authorise cover.
Step 2: Ask specifically about alternative accommodation and temporary kitchen cover. Do not wait for them to mention it. Ask directly: "Does my policy include alternative accommodation cover? Can this be used to hire a temporary kitchen pod instead of moving out?"
Step 3: Your insurer will appoint a loss adjuster. For significant claims, an independent loss adjuster will visit your property to assess the damage. They will determine what is covered and what is not.
Step 4: Get quotes for a temporary kitchen. You can arrange this yourself or your insurer may have preferred suppliers. Getting your own quotes gives you more control over the type and quality of kitchen you receive. Use our quote form to get matched with providers who work with insurance claims.
Step 5: Submit the quotes to your insurer or loss adjuster. They will approve a reasonable cost. The insurer may pay the provider directly, or reimburse you.
Step 6: Get your temporary kitchen delivered. Most providers can deliver within 24-48 hours of approval. Some offer same-day emergency delivery.
What Type of Temporary Kitchen Will I Get?
For domestic insurance claims, the most common options are:
Driveway pod (large) — a fully equipped kitchen unit placed on your driveway. Includes fridge-freezer, oven or hob, microwave, kettle, toaster, sink with hot and cold water, and worktop space. Connects to your home's electricity and water.
Driveway pod (compact) — same concept but smaller, for homes with limited driveway space or narrow access.
Indoor capsule kitchen — installed inside your home, typically in a living room or spare bedroom. No driveway needed. Ideal for flats, apartments, and homes without outdoor space.
The provider will survey your property (often remotely via photos) to recommend the right option.
Tips for a Smooth Insurance Claim
Document everything. Photograph the damage before any cleanup. Keep all receipts. Note the time and date the damage occurred.
Read your policy. Look for sections titled "alternative accommodation," "loss of use," or "additional living expenses." Note the maximum cover amount — it varies by policy.
Be proactive. Do not wait for your insurer to suggest a temporary kitchen. Many families end up without one simply because they did not know to ask.
Ask about direct payment. Many temporary kitchen providers have established relationships with insurers and loss adjusters. They can invoice the insurer directly, meaning you pay nothing upfront.
Know your rights. If your policy includes alternative accommodation cover, you are entitled to claim. The insurer cannot refuse a reasonable request for a temporary kitchen if the alternative would be more expensive (such as hotel accommodation).
How Much Does It Cost? (If You Are Paying Privately)
If your situation is not covered by insurance — for example, a planned renovation — temporary kitchen hire is still very affordable. Most domestic providers quote individually based on your needs, but typical costs range from £50-£150 per week for a driveway pod.
See our full cost guide for detailed pricing.
Need Help?
We can match you with temporary kitchen providers who specialise in insurance claims and have established relationships with major UK insurers. Get a free quote — select "I'm making an insurance claim" and we will connect you with the right providers.