Owning a rental property can bring steady income, but it also comes with risks. Whether it is a single flat or a portfolio of houses, buy-to-let insurance is designed to provide financial protection against events that could affect your property, income, or liability.
We assist landlords in arranging tailored buy-to-let insurance policies that reflect the specific risks involved with renting out residential properties in the UK.
What Is Buy-to-Let Insurance?
Buy-to-let insurance is a type of landlord insurance created for property owners who rent out homes or flats to tenants. It goes beyond standard home insurance by offering cover for:
- Buildings and fixtures
- Loss of rental income
- Public liability
- Accidental damage and emergencies
This type of cover is often required by lenders as part of mortgage agreements, but even without that, it can provide important protection.
Why Standard Home Insurance Is Not Enough
Ordinary home insurance is designed for owner-occupied properties. Once a property is rented out, the risks change. Tenants may not take the same care as an owner, and landlords face potential claims from tenants, visitors, or neighbours.
Buy-to-let insurance is designed specifically to handle these risks, helping cover costs if a claim arises.
Key Risks Buy-to-Let Insurance Can Cover
1. Building Damage from Fire, Flood or Storm
Unexpected damage could leave a property uninhabitable. Buy-to-let insurance can cover the cost of repairs or rebuilding.
2. Burst Pipes and Escape of Water
Unnoticed leaks can cause expensive damage. Cover is especially useful in properties left vacant for short periods between tenants.
3. Loss of Rental Income
If a tenant must move out due to damage, some policies may include loss of rent cover to help maintain your income.
4. Public Liability Claims
If a tenant or visitor is injured due to a fault in the property, public liability insurance can cover legal costs and compensation claims.
5. Accidental or Malicious Damage
Some policies may also include protection against damage caused by tenants, helping maintain the value of the property.
Common Buy-to-Let Insurance Mistakes Landlords Make
Many landlords risk financial exposure by:
- Relying on standard home cover rather than specialist buy-to-let policies
- Forgetting to update their insurer when tenants change
- Underestimating the level of cover needed for larger or older properties
We help landlords avoid these mistakes by arranging policies that reflect the type of cover required for their specific property.
How Much Buy-to-Let Cover Might You Need?
The amount of cover depends on:
- Property value
- Rental income
- Type of tenants
- Location and local risks
We support landlords in selecting policies that provide adequate protection without unnecessary extras, offering peace of mind and cost efficiency.
Which Properties Could Benefit from Buy-to-Let Insurance?
- Single flats and houses
- Houses in multiple occupation (HMOs)
- Student lets
- Holiday rental properties
Even if a property is only rented part-time, insurance can cover risks that would not apply to owner-occupiers.