More than one in five Australians bend the truth on their home insurance applications to save money, according to research by comparison site Finder.

The 2026 Household Report reveals 22% of people with home cover have left out or exaggerated information when taking out or renewing policies.

About 10% admit they have fudged details about alarms, locks or security cameras and 9% have misrepresented the value of their home or contents; the same proportion have claimed DIY repairs or renovations were completed by licensed tradies.

Ceyda Erem, insurance expert at Finder, says trying to reduce premiums by bending the truth could leave homeowners far worse off.

“Many Australians are understandably looking for ways to bring down their household expenses, but insurance is one area where cutting corners can really backfire.

“A small saving on your premium isn’t worth it if inaccurate details give your insurer grounds to reduce or deny a claim just when you need their help most.”

About 7% of survey respondents have been untruthful about whether their property is in a bushfire, flood or cyclone zone, and 6% have lied about the age or construction of their home.

A further 4% have left out previous insurance claims or rejections, and 4% have misrepresented whether their home is owner-occupied, rented out or vacant.

Ms Erem says consumers should review their cover rather than risk a rejected claim.

“If your premium has crept up, resist the urge to tweak the details to bring it down. Look for a more competitive policy with the right level of cover instead, because saving money should never mean gambling with your home.”

Finder notes most respondents (74%) say they have always given accurate information when taking out or renewing home insurance.