Investing in landlord insurance is a wise decision, even though it’s not legally required. Without it, you expose yourself to significant risks. Here are the key points to understand about landlord insurance:
What Is Landlord Insurance?
Landlord insurance provides you with protection against the risks associated with renting to tenants. Usually, this insurance includes protection against things like damages to the building or contents. But there are other optional policies you can take out, like cover for boiler breakages or missed rent payments.
What Type of Insurance Should You Get?
There are many different types of insurance available. Each one will cover you for different circumstances. The main types of cover available include:
- Building – Covers the repair of structural damage, plus fixtures and fittings, in the event of a fire, storm, flood or other accident.
- Contents – Covers damage or theft of furnishings, including things like curtains, carpets, and white goods. This doesn’t include items the tenant owns, as they should have their own tenant’s insurance.
- Liability – Covers the costs if you or your tenant is injured on your property.
- Rent guarantee – Recovers any missed rent payments by the tenant and any legal fees should you take a tenant to court.
- Home emergency – Protects in the event of an emergency, like a boiler, plumbing, security, or pest issue.
- Key care – Covers the cost of providing new locks or keys to tenants.
If you’re not sure which type of cover you need, speak to your letting agent for advice or check with your lender.
3 Things To Know About Landlord Insurance
1. Landlord Insurance is Different To Home Insurance
Landlord insurance is very different to regular home insurance. If you have home insurance on a property, but you’re renting the space to a tenant, your policy will automatically be void. If you’re not living in the property, basic home insurance won’t provide you with the cover you need as a landlord.
2. Some Lenders Mandate It
It’s not a legal requirement to have landlord insurance. But most mortgage lenders will make it mandatory before entering into an agreement with you. If you don’t comply, you could be breaking the terms of your mortgage.
3. It’s Tax-Deductible
Just like most landlord expenses, you can usually claim back on the costs of your insurance. Make sure you keep records of payment and notify your accountant (if you have one) about the costs.
4. Bulk Discounts Apply
If you rent more than one property, you could get a discount on your landlord insurance. Many providers will offer you a discount if you choose to arrange your insurance for all buildings on a bulk policy.
Rent With Confidence
At PIIM Property, we can help you rent with the confidence and security you need.
For more advice on landlord insurance and property management services, get in touch with us today on 01207 772033 or via email at info@piim.co.uk
