If you own a shepherd’s hut—whether it’s a garden office, holiday rental, or off-grid retreat—insurance is something you shouldn’t overlook. At Pumphrey & Weston, we craft beautiful, handcrafted shepherd huts built to last. But even the sturdiest structures deserve the right protection.
In this guide, we’ll cover why insurance matters, what type you might need, and where to start.
Why Insure a Shepherd’s Hut?
Shepherd huts are often a significant investment. Whether yours is used as a glamping stay, home office, guest room or wellness space, insurance helps protect that investment from unexpected issues like:
Fire and storm damage
Theft or vandalism
Accidental damage
Liability claims (especially for holiday lets)
Without the right cover, you could be left out of pocket if something goes wrong.
What Type of Insurance Do You Need?
The kind of insurance you’ll need depends on how your shepherd hut is used:
1. Personal Use (e.g. Garden Room or Guest Space):
You may be able to add your hut to your home insurance policy as an “outbuilding.” However, because shepherd huts are movable and often contain high-value interiors, it’s best to check if your policy fully covers it.
2. Holiday Let or Airbnb:
You’ll need a more comprehensive holiday home insurance policy. This should include public liability cover, business use, and potential loss of rental income.
3. Commercial Use (e.g. Salon, Office, Farm Shop):
If your hut is used for business, look for a commercial property policy or speak to a broker about specialist coverage.
Things to Ask Your Insurer
When getting a quote, be sure to ask:
Is the hut covered if it’s on wheels or moved to a new location?
Does the policy include contents and fixtures (e.g. log burners, bathrooms)?
Are you covered if renting it out to guests?
What about storm or flood risk in rural areas?
Popular Insurers for Shepherd Huts
Some UK insurers and brokers now offer policies tailored to shepherd huts and glamping structures. These include:
Towergate Insurance
Shield Total Insurance
Leisuredays
NFU Mutual (great for rural properties)
A specialist broker can often find the best deal based on how you use your hut.
Peace of Mind for You—and Your Guests
At Pumphrey & Weston, we build shepherd huts designed for years of use in all seasons. But no matter how well-built your hut is, having the right insurance means you’re protected from the unexpected—giving you peace of mind to enjoy or rent out your space worry-free.
Need help choosing a hut that suits your plans?
We’re always happy to advise on design, use cases, and how to future-proof your shepherd hut project. Get in touch or come visit our workshop in Cornwall.