Subject to the provisions of N.C. Gen. Stat. § 58-43-5, when buildings insured against loss by fire and situated within the State are totally destroyed by fire, the company is not liable beyond the actual cash value of the insured property at the time of the loss or damage; and if it appears that the insured has paid a premium on a sum in excess of the actual value, he shall be reimbursed the proportionate excess of premium paid on the difference between the amount named in the policy and the ascertained values, with interest at six per centum (6%) per annum from the date of issue. (1899, c. 54, s. 40; Rev., s. 4756; C.S., s. 6419; 1949, c. 295, s. 2.)