Why landlords need specialist cover
Standard home insurance won't cover a let property — you need landlord (buy-to-let) insurance built for the risks of renting. The best policy covers the building and the specific risks of letting, tailored to your property and tenants. Some elements may be required by your mortgage lender.
1. Landlord buildings insurance
Covers the structure against fire, flood, subsidence and more — usually required by buy-to-let lenders. Best as the foundation for any landlord; make sure the rebuild value is accurate.
2. Landlord contents insurance
Covers items you provide (furnishings, white goods, carpets), especially for furnished lets. Best for furnished or part-furnished properties — you insure your contents, not the tenant's.
3. Landlord liability insurance
Protects you against claims if a tenant or visitor is injured due to the property. Best — often essential — for all landlords; some tenancies and schemes require it.
4. Loss of rent and rent guarantee
Loss of rent covers income if the property becomes uninhabitable after an insured event; rent guarantee covers tenant non-payment. Best for landlords who rely on the rental income and want protection against voids and arrears.
5. Cover for specific property types
HMOs, listed buildings, flats and unoccupied periods need tailored cover. Best to match the policy to your exact property type rather than a generic landlord policy.
What to include
- Always: buildings + landlord liability
- Furnished lets: landlord contents
- Income protection: loss of rent and/or rent guarantee
- Special property: HMO, listed or unoccupied cover
How to find the best landlord insurance
A specialist broker can assemble the right landlord cover for your property and tenants at the best price. Find a home insurance specialist through Nesto — free, no obligation.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use standard home insurance for a rental?
No — letting a property needs specialist landlord insurance. Standard home cover won't pay out for a let property.
Is landlord insurance a legal requirement?
Not by law, but buy-to-let lenders usually require buildings cover, and landlord liability is strongly recommended (and sometimes required).
What is rent guarantee insurance?
It covers your rental income if a tenant doesn't pay, usually alongside legal cover for eviction. Loss of rent covers income after an insured event makes the property uninhabitable.
Do I need contents cover as a landlord?
For furnished or part-furnished lets, yes — to cover the items you provide. Tenants insure their own belongings.
Does my property type matter?
Yes — HMOs, listed buildings, flats and unoccupied periods need tailored cover. Match the policy to your property.