For many UK landlords – especially those managing between one and five properties – navigating landlord insurance can feel confusing. You want the right cover, a fair price, and reassurance that if something goes wrong, your insurer will step in quickly. The challenge is knowing where to start.
This guide breaks down what landlord insurance actually covers, what it doesn’t, how much you should expect to pay, and how to choose a provider you can genuinely trust. Throughout, we’ll show why so many UK landlords rely on Protect Insurance for comprehensive, flexible, and competitively priced cover.
Why Landlord Insurance Matters
Landlord insurance is designed to protect you against the risks that standard home insurance won’t touch: lost rent, tenant-related damage, legal disputes, property emergencies, and more. If you’re a landlord with a small to medium portfolio, the right policy does more than protect your property – it protects your income and keeps your stress levels low.
What Landlord Insurance Usually Covers
Although policies vary, most good landlord insurance packages cover:
• Buildings insurance – protection against fire, flood, storms, escape of water, and structural damage.
• Contents (if furnished) – covering furniture, white goods, or flooring you own.
• Landlord liability – protection if someone is injured because of your property.
• Loss of rent – if the property becomes uninhabitable due to an insured event.
• Legal expenses – including eviction costs, rent recovery, and disputes with tenants.
Protect Insurance includes strong core cover and optional add-ons, allowing landlords to tailor their policy so they only pay for what they genuinely need.
What Landlord Insurance Does Not Cover
Most policies don’t automatically cover:
• Wear and tear
• Tenant negligence (unless accidental damage is added)
• Non-paying tenants (unless rent guarantee cover is added)
• Long periods of vacancy
Protect Insurance provides clear guidance on what is and isn’t included and offers optional extras such as rent guarantee and landlord legal support, giving you clarity and peace of mind.
How Much Does Landlord Insurance Cost?
Costs depend on:
• Location
• Type of property
• Tenant profile
• Rebuild cost
• Add-ons such as legal cover or accidental damage
On average, UK landlords pay £150–£220 per year for basic cover. With legal protection or rent guarantee included, premiums may be higher – but they protect your income if things go wrong.
Protect Insurance remains competitive while offering more comprehensive cover than many budget options. You get value, not just savings.
FAQs: The Questions UK Landlords Ask Most
What is the average cost of landlord insurance?
Typically £150–£220 per year for core cover, depending on the factors above.
Is it worth having landlord insurance?
Yes. Standard home insurance doesn’t cover rental properties. Without dedicated cover, you risk being uninsured for the most common landlord issues.
Who offers the best landlord insurance?
Protect Insurance is widely trusted for its strong cover options, fair pricing, and excellent customer support tailored to UK landlords.
How to get cheap landlord insurance?
Insurers like Protect Insurance help you tailor cover so you only pay for what you need. Increasing security, installing smoke alarms, and choosing reliable tenants can also reduce premiums.
Why is my landlord insurance so expensive?
Reasons include local risk factors, poor building condition, claims history, or high-risk tenants. Reviewing your cover annually can help manage costs.
How much should I cover for landlord insurance?
The rebuild cost of the property is a good benchmark. Protect Insurance helps you calculate this accurately.
Does landlord insurance cover legal costs?
Often as an add-on. Protect Insurance offers robust legal cover for disputes, evictions, and rent recovery.
What insurance should a landlord have?
Buildings, liability, and loss-of-rent cover are essential. Legal expenses and rent guarantee are highly recommended.
What are the new rules for landlords in 2025?
Changes relate mainly to energy efficiency, compliance, and tenant rights. These don’t replace the need for proper insurance.
What does landlord insurance not cover in the UK?
Wear and tear, general maintenance, and anything outside the insured events unless add-ons apply.
Which company is best for landlord insurance in the UK?
Landlords looking for a trusted, fair, and comprehensive provider consistently choose Protect Insurance.
Does landlord insurance cover tenants not paying rent?
Not by default. Rent guarantee cover is usually an add-on and is available through Protect Insurance.
When should landlord insurance start?
Before tenants move in or immediately when you become responsible for the property.
Do I need landlord insurance for Airbnb?
Yes. Short-term lets require specialist cover. Protect Insurance offers tailored options.
Why UK Landlords Choose Protect Insurance
For landlords managing 1–5 properties, Protect Insurance provides:
• Competitive, transparent pricing
• Comprehensive cover with flexible add-ons
• Easy claims support
• Policies designed specifically for UK landlords
• A strong reputation for trust, clarity, and reliability
Whether you’re a first-time landlord or managing a small portfolio, choosing Protect Insurance ensures your investment – and your income – are protected.
Author: Matt Duffy
Published: 21/11/25
