Landlord Insurance

As a landlord, protecting your properties is vital. Landlord insurance is tailored to the risks that come with owning and letting a property. In this guide, we outline what landlord insurance is, what it can cover, how to compare policies effectively, and practical ways to find the lowest-cost cover.

What is landlord insurance?

It’s a policy for property owners who let their properties. It usually bundles several protections and differs from standard home insurance (which assumes the owner lives in the property). Letting introduces different risks—such as liability claims, malicious damage, and loss of rent.

What does it cover?

The exact cover depends on the policy, but it commonly includes:

• Buildings cover: Protection for the structure—walls, roof, windows, foundations—and permanent fixtures.

• Landlord contents: Items you provide with the tenancy, such as carpets, curtains, furniture and appliances.

• Loss of rent: If an insured event (e.g. fire, flood, storm) makes the property uninhabitable, this helps replace rental income during repairs.

• Legal expenses: Costs for actions like eviction proceedings, defending liability claims from tenants or visitors, and handling disputes.

• Public liability: If someone is injured or their property is damaged due to something you’re responsible for (e.g. poor maintenance or unsafe structures).

• Optional extras: May include rent guarantee (if a tenant stops paying), malicious damage by tenants, accidental damage, temporary accommodation for tenants, and other add-ons depending on the insurer.

Best landlord insurance providers

Here are well-known UK landlord insurance providers and a snapshot of what their policies typically cover. Exact features, limits and exclusions vary by tier and policy wording, so always check documents before you purchase.

Compare landlord insurance quotes online

Average landlord insurance prices are of limited use—premiums vary widely by property and risk profile. Choosing the right policy can be difficult because cover levels, terms and optional extras differ markedly between insurers, and some providers only insure specific property types.

The simplest way to secure suitable cover is to speak with a specialist adviser. Whether you need protection for a single rental flat, a student HMO, or a portfolio of buy-to-lets, our team can compare tailored landlord insurance quotes in minutes.

Tips for getting the cheapest UK landlord insurance

How to reduce landlord insurance costs

• Shop around: Insurers price differently for varying landlord profiles. Some are sharper for single buy-to-lets, others for HMOs or portfolio landlords. Compare a range of relevant landlord insurance quotes.

• Use a specialist adviser: Not all providers show their best rates direct or online. A broker can access deals that aren’t widely advertised and tailor cover to your ownership structure and circumstances.

• Bundle multiple properties: If you have several rentals, consider a single portfolio policy. Many insurers apply multi-property discounts—saving both time and money.

• Choose a higher excess: A larger excess usually lowers the premium. Ensure it remains affordable if you need to make a claim.

• Limit unnecessary add-ons: Options like rent guarantee or accidental damage can be valuable, but they increase cost. Select only the cover you’re likely to need.

• Improve security: Better locks, alarms and controlled entry systems can reduce risk and may qualify you for lower premiums.

• Pay annually: Monthly instalments often include interest. Paying the premium in one go can cut the overall price.

Frequently Asked Questions