As we approach 2026, insurers are sharpening their focus on risk quality. Underwriters are increasingly selective, and properties that demonstrate proactive maintenance and clear risk controls will receive better pricing, broader appetite and more favourable terms.
The good news? Many of the improvements that insurers value most are simple, inexpensive and easy to implement—yet they deliver significant benefits when it comes to renewal negotiations.
On Day 9 of our 20-day series, we highlight the practical risk improvements that help landlords secure better outcomes today while strengthening their position for the 2026 insurance cycle.
NetRent, working closely with Clear Insurance Management, helps landlords identify, document and present these improvements in a way underwriters value most.
Why Risk Improvements Will Matter Even More in 2026
The insurance market is shifting, and insurers are expected to focus on the following throughout 2026:
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rising escape-of-water claims
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increased fire safety requirements
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stricter approach to underinsurance
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occupancy accuracy
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documentation and compliance
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property condition and maintenance
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claims history discipline
Landlords who demonstrate proactive risk management will benefit from:
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reduced premiums
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fewer conditions
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increased insurer appetite
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more flexible underwriting
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better claims outcomes
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stronger negotiating leverage
Risk improvements = pricing power.
The Most Impactful Risk Improvements for Landlords Heading Into 2026
These are the changes that matter most—because they reduce actual risk and align with current underwriting priorities.
1. Leak Detection & Water Mitigation
Escape of water is now one of the most expensive—and most common—claims.
Insurers increasingly reward:
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leak detection devices
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automatic shut-off valves
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improved pipe lagging
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regular plumbing inspections
2026 Advantage
Underwriters may soon begin requiring these for certain property types. Installing them early demonstrates proactive risk management.
2. Upgraded Door & Window Security
Security improvements reduce theft and malicious damage claims.
Recommended upgrades include:
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PAS24-compliant doors
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British Standard locks
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laminated glazing
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upgraded window restrictors
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security lighting
2026 Advantage
Insurers are expected to apply more scrutiny around burglary and malicious damage trends—especially for HMOs and student lets.
3. Fire Safety Measures & Compliance
For HMOs, blocks and multi-occupancy properties, insurers will increasingly expect:
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interlinked smoke and heat detectors
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compliant fire doors
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regularly serviced alarms
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emergency lighting
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clear signing and evacuation plans
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up-to-date fire risk assessments
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documented FRA improvement actions
2026 Advantage
Properties with full compliance are better placed for favourable terms—and often enjoy broader cover options.
4. Risk Documentation: The Insurer’s Quiet Priority
Insurers love well-documented properties.
They gain confidence when they can see:
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inspection logs
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maintenance records
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electrical and gas safety certificates
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FRA documentation
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HMO licensing evidence
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occupancy records
2026 Advantage
Properties with complete documentation will enjoy stronger insurer appetite—while disorganised portfolios may face higher premiums.
5. Outside Property Improvements
Insurers also evaluate the risk environment around the home:
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clear gutters and drains
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vegetation trimmed away from walls
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flat roof condition reports
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regular roof inspections
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safe access and pathways
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secure boundary fencing
2026 Advantage
Underwriters are increasingly factoring in weather resilience and water management. Small improvements today can reduce premiums for next year’s renewal.
6. Proactive Claims Management
A well-managed claim doesn’t just speed up settlement—it protects your long-term pricing.
Insurers prefer landlords who:
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report claims immediately
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follow broker instructions
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keep full documentation
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avoid unnecessary disputes
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take recommended improvements
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maintain clean claims histories
2026 Advantage
Better claims discipline directly influences 2026 renewal pricing.
7. Portfolio-Wide Consistency
For landlords with multiple properties, consistent upgrades amplify the benefit:
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same type of smoke alarms
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matched security standards
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unified water mitigation approach
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standardised documentation
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coordinated maintenance schedules
2026 Advantage
A consistent, well-maintained portfolio is far more attractive to insurers than varied or patchy standards.
How NetRent & Clear Help You Implement and Present Risk Improvements
We don’t just recommend improvements—we help you translate them into underwriting value.
✔ Property audit and risk review
✔ Prioritised improvement plan
✔ Guidance on cost-effective upgrades
✔ Documentation checklist
✔ Underwriter-ready presentation
✔ Demonstration of proactive risk culture
Insurers don’t just want properties to be safer—they want to see that they’re safer.
We ensure they do.
The Result? Better Terms Going Into 2026
By implementing even a handful of these improvements, landlords can expect:
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more competitive premiums
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fewer policy conditions
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improved cover scope
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greater insurer appetite
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better resilience during claims
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enhanced negotiating strength
The changes you make in late 2025 will directly influence the renewal outcome you achieve in 2026.
Contact NetRent
For a personalised risk improvement plan:
Telephone: 01352 721300
Email: support@netrent.co.uk