Fire insurance, which often includes cover for flood, riot, earthquake and storm, can be divided into four classes:

1. P.D.H.—Private dwelling house.

2. Householder's Comprehensive—In addition to providing the cover as for P.D.H. this also includes other ancillary risks many of which are optional, including those for burglary and personal accident.

3. Industrial Fire—Risks range from farms and small shops to vast industrial complexes. The insurance is against damage to property and contents.

4. Consequential Loss of Profits—Over and above the material damage sustained, there is in most cases a loss of profit arising out of the interruption and a need to go on paying various standing charges, despite the fact that there may be no income. This type of cover, which is usually ‘tailor-made’ to fit the precise requirements, is intended to provide for any additional loss arising out of a fire or the occurrence of any other insured peril.