We often find that landlords don’t realise that contents cover can be an additional extra. When considering types of business insurance, many property owners overlook how landlord policies fit within wider protection. The new Commercial Insurance Act puts the responsibility on landlords to ensure that they have the correct cover for their property. In many cases, business insurance a legal framework applies, meaning insurance a legal requirement must be taken seriously. It is now law that landlords are responsible if they are not insured fully in the event of an insurance claim.
Not all landlord insurance policies cover landlord’s contents. It is difficult to define what landlord’s contents are. In practical terms, imagine you were to turn the house upside down—the items that fell out would be included as contents. The building insurance covers fixed items such as fitted kitchens, bathrooms, and carpets. This distinction is important when reviewing the cost of business insurance, especially for small businesses and landlords operating as a business.
Are appliances/white goods covered for landlord’s contents insurance?
Not everyone’s insurance policy covers white goods. We have an exclusive policy with Aviva insurance which includes landlord’s contents cover up to £5,000. This includes white goods whether fitted or not. Not all policies are the same though. Some landlord insurance policies do not include contents cover or it may be an optional extra. Understanding the types of business insurance available helps you avoid gaps in cover.
Make sure that you have the right amount of appliance cover for anything that you have in the property. The cost of business insurance can vary depending on the level of protection you choose. You may have appliances such as washing machines, fridge freezers, and other home items that need cover. For small businesses and landlords, this is part of responsible risk management.
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Do I need contents insurance for my tenant’s belongings?
You won’t need to include cover for your tenant’s belongings in your landlord’s insurance policy as this is up to your tenants. This is similar to how members of the public are responsible for their own personal possessions in other insurance contexts.
What does landlord’s contents insurance actually cover?
The exact details of your policy could vary between insurers so you will need to check. However, you would expect the following to be covered:
- Furniture such as sofas and cabinets
- Kitchen appliances like ovens and sinks
- Curtains and carpets
- Light fittings and artwork
- Outbuildings and garden contents
For landlords running their property as a business, this overlaps with broader types of business insurance considerations.
What will I be insured against?
This depends on your provider, but typically includes:
- Theft by tenant
- Malicious damage
- Accidental damage
- Alternative accommodation
- Loss of rent
These risks are similar to those covered under public liability insurance, which protects against claims involving members of the public, and employers liability insurance, which is essential if you employ staff.
What isn’t covered?
Each policy differs, but exclusions often include:
- Damage in unoccupied properties
- Wear and tear
- High-value items without extra cover
This is why reviewing your policy carefully is vital, especially where insurance a legal requirement applies.
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How much does landlord contents insurance cost?
The cost of business insurance depends on several factors:
- The value of contents
- Security measures
- Property location
- Level of cover
- Claims history
For small businesses, balancing affordability and protection is key. Cheaper policies may reduce the cost of business insurance, but often at the expense of cover.
Compare landlord insurance quotes
Always compare policies carefully. Whether you are considering public liability insurance, professional indemnity insurance, or landlord cover, the cheapest option is not always the best. Many landlords forget that business insurance a legal responsibility can require adequate—not minimal—cover.
Students and contents insurance
Student landlords often assume furniture is covered, but many policies treat this as an extra. Tenants can take out their own contents insurance, which is separate from landlord responsibilities. This is similar to how members of the public would insure their own belongings.
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Business insurance and additional cover
If you are running property as a business, you may also need:
- Public liability insurance to protect against claims from members of the public
- Employers liability insurance if you employ staff
- Professional indemnity insurance if you provide advice or services
These are all key types of business insurance that protect landlords operating at scale. In some cases, insurance a legal requirement means you must have specific policies in place.
Do you need professional indemnity/business insurance?
We offer a wide range of products including professional indemnity insurance, public liability insurance, and full business cover. Whether you are a landlord or one of many small businesses, having the right protection in place is essential.
Final thoughts
Landlord insurance is more than just buildings cover—it’s part of a wider risk strategy. From public liability insurance to employers liability insurance, understanding your obligations helps you stay compliant where business insurance a legal framework applies.
Always review your policy, compare options, and ensure you are not underinsured. The right balance between cover and the cost of business insurance will give you long-term peace of mind.
