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Introduction to general insurance

Your car, home, travel plans, and helper are all at risk without proper cover. Get up to speed on general insurance in Singapore—what’s covered and what isn’t.

Last updated 2 July 2026
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Key takeaways

  • Make sure you know what's covered and what's not

  • Know who can sell you general insurance

  • You'll receive a lump sum if the item covered is lost or damaged

General insurance is designed to protect the things you value. Your insurance company will pay you the sum assured or an agreed amount to cover some or all the loss under certain situations.

For example:

  • Loss of your belongings when you travel

  • Damage to your car

  • Damage to your house

Who are you dealing with

General insurance products may be sold by general insurance agents or broking staff of insurance brokers. Before acting as an insurance agent for distributing general insurance products, the person or company must register with the Agents Registration Board (ARB), which is under the General Insurance Association (GIA) of Singapore.

Before buying, ask for the agent’s GIA number. Check with the ARB to see if the individual is permitted to sell general insurance products.

Under the General Insurance Code of Practice, general insurers and their agents have to explain all the main features of their products and services. They are also expected to handle your claims, complaints and requests for information fairly and promptly.

Policy owners' protection (PPF)

Did you know that in Singapore, there is protection for your insurance policies? The PPF Scheme covers general insurance policies including all compulsory insurance policies under the Motor Vehicles (Third Party Risks and Compensation) Act, Work Injury Compensation Act, short term accident and health (A&H) policies and specific policies issued to individuals such as:

  • Personal motor insurance policies

  • Personal travel insurance policies

  • Personal property (structure and contents) insurance policies

  • Foreign domestic maid insurance policies

These specific policies insure risks arising in Singapore or where the insured is a Singapore resident or has a permanent establishment in Singapore.

In the event of the failure of a general insurer, Singapore Deposit Insurance Corporation (SDIC) will compensate policy owners for claims incurred up to 30 days after the winding up order. SDIC will also refund policy owners the pro-rated premiums paid for the unutilised period of insurance coverage. This is to enable policy owners to seek alternative coverage from other general insurers.

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