Buildings insurance for landlords

When you invest in buy-to-let or commercial property, it’s important to protect your investment against disasters such as fire or flooding. If the property became uninhabitable because of this, you would lose your income and be responsible for the re-building costs.

Buildings insurance for landlords is therefore one of the most important insurance covers you can take out for your investment.

What does buildings insurance for landlords cover?

Building insurance for landlords is designed to protect you from the costs of damage caused by natural disasters such as fire or flood.  The insurance can pay for the complete re-building of the property, therefore it is important to tell us the correct re-build amount on your insurance form.

Buying your landlord buildings insurance

Buying the right buildings insurance for your rental property is simple. 

• Build your ideal cover using our simple quote form
• Add on any additional covers you need
• Compare a range of quotes from trusted insurers
• Buy your policy online or speak to an expert on the telephone
• Receive your documents online instantly

Making a claim

Here is an example of a landlord insurance claim:

The incident:
The tenants of the property were on holiday for a week in June and on their return found that entry had been gained and a considerable amount of damage had been caused. The hot water cylinder, radiators and pipe work had been ripped out and damage was sustained by escape of water. The local police were contacted by the neighbours who phoned when they heard commotion from the property. The police confirmed there was forced entry to the front door.

What did the Insurance Company pay for?
The cost to replace the hot water cylinder, radiators and pipe work as well as drying out the property due to the water escaping.
The cost to fix/repair the damage to the front door.
The cost to replace any damage to flooring or walls caused by the water damage.
If the property was uninhabitable, the cost for the tenants to have alternative accommodation that is comparable to their current living situation.

What the insurance did not pay for:
The excess displayed in the schedule

Details to look out for when buying your policy

• Make sure that you read and understand any exclusions on your policy. You may find that some quotes contain exclusions that don’t cover you under circumstances that are important for your property.
• Remember that conventional home insurance will not cover you for a buy-to-let property.
• If you own a leasehold property, check with the property managers before buying landlord insurance whether they already have buildings insurance. If they do, you may not need it.
• Buildings insurance does not cover the contents of the property.