Many landlords assume their insurance covers everything — until they make a claim and discover gaps.
The truth is, landlord insurance policies vary widely, and misunderstanding what’s included (and what isn’t) can leave you exposed to costly risks.
In this article, we’ll break down exactly what landlord insurance typically covers, highlight the common misconceptions, and show you how to make sure you’re properly protected.
What Is Landlord Insurance?
Landlord insurance is a specialist type of cover designed for rental properties. Unlike standard home insurance, it takes into account the unique risks landlords face, such as tenant-related damage, rent arrears, and liability claims.
But here’s where many landlords get caught out: not every policy covers the same things. Knowing what’s included (and what needs adding on) is essential.
Core Coverages Most Policies Include
- Buildings Insurance
This protects the physical structure of your property — walls, roof, floors, fixtures, and fittings — against risks like fire, flood, subsidence, or storm damage.
Essential for every landlord, and usually required if you have a mortgage.
- Property Owners’ Liability Insurance
If a tenant, visitor, or tradesperson is injured at your property, you could be held legally responsible. Liability claims can run into tens of thousands of pounds.
Liability insurance covers legal fees and compensation costs.
- Loss of Rent (Sometimes)
If your property becomes uninhabitable after an insured event (like fire or flood), loss of rent cover ensures you still receive rental income.
Not always included as standard — check your policy wording.
- Legal Expenses (Optional)
Disputes with tenants — such as eviction, rent arrears, or contract disagreements — can be expensive. Legal expenses cover helps with solicitor and court costs.
Usually an add-on, but a very smart investment.
- Contents Insurance (If Furnished)
If you let your property furnished, landlord contents insurance covers items you provide (e.g., furniture, appliances, carpets).
It doesn’t cover your tenants’ belongings — they need their own contents policy.
Common Misconceptions About Landlord Insurance
“It covers tenant contents.”
Wrong. Landlord insurance covers your fixtures, fittings, and furniture — not tenants’ personal possessions.
“It covers every type of tenant damage.”
Not always. Many policies exclude malicious or accidental tenant damage unless specified.
“It automatically covers vacant periods.”
Most insurers reduce or restrict cover if a property is unoccupied for more than 30 days.
“The cheapest policy will do.”
Budget policies often exclude key protections like loss of rent or liability cover. Cheaper isn’t always safer.
How to Make Sure You’re Covered Properly
- Review your policy wording carefully (not just the headline cover).
- Ask your insurer or broker about optional extras that match your needs.
- Reassess your cover annually — especially if your property circumstances change.
Final Thoughts
Landlord insurance isn’t a one-size-fits-all product. While most policies include buildings and liability cover, the extras — like loss of rent, legal expenses, and tenant damage — make the difference between being partly covered and fully protected.
At NetRent Insurance Services, we specialise in helping landlords choose the right cover, tailored to their properties and tenants.
Call us on 01352 721300