Landlord Insurance Estimator
Standard home insurance does not cover a property that is let out to tenants. Landlords need specialist landlord insurance that covers the unique risks of rental property: tenant damage, loss of rent, liability to tenants, and legal expenses. This estimator provides a realistic cost range for landlord buildings insurance based on property type and size, helping you budget accurately before purchase.
Why this matters
Uninsured landlords face potentially unlimited liability if a tenant is injured on the property, and no cover for malicious damage or loss of rent. Insurance is non-negotiable — but varies widely in cost and quality.
Key points
- Landlord insurance covers buildings, landlord contents, liability, and optionally rent guarantee
- Typical landlord buildings insurance: £250–£800 per year for a standard house
- HMOs require specialist HMO insurance — generally 20–40% more expensive than standard
- Rent guarantee insurance can be added as a rider: typically £150–£400 per year
- Legal expenses insurance covers eviction costs and tenancy disputes: typically £50–£150 per year
- Multi-property portfolio policies often offer meaningful discounts versus insuring individually
Frequently asked questions
What does landlord insurance cover that normal home insurance doesn't?
Landlord insurance adds cover for: loss of rent if the property is uninhabitable, malicious damage by tenants, public liability for accidents involving tenants and visitors, optional legal expenses for eviction and disputes, and optional rent guarantee. Normal home insurance explicitly excludes rental activities.
Do I need landlord insurance if my property is leasehold?
For leasehold properties, buildings insurance is usually handled by the freeholder/management company through the service charge. You still need landlord contents insurance and liability cover. Check whether the freeholder's buildings policy covers landlord liability.
What is rent guarantee insurance?
Rent guarantee insurance (also called rent protection insurance) pays your rent if a tenant stops paying and cannot be evicted quickly. It typically covers up to 12 months of rent and legal eviction costs. It requires full tenant referencing to be valid.
Does my mortgage lender require landlord insurance?
Yes — virtually all buy-to-let mortgage lenders require adequate buildings insurance as a mortgage condition. Failure to maintain insurance could technically put your mortgage in default.