Tenants’ liability insurance

Tenants’ liability insurance, sometimes known as renters liability insurance, can cover you against unexpected costs if you unintentionally damage your landlord's fittings, fixtures or furniture.

If you're living in rented accommodation, this type of specialist insurance could prevent you from losing your security deposit when you finish your tenancy.

In some instances, you may be required to buy a level of tenant’s liability insurance as part of the agreement with your landlord.

Is it different to contents insurance?

Yes, contents insurance is different to tenant's liability insurance - the main difference being what each policy covers.

Contents insurance is there to protect your belongings, but it won't cover you against accidental damage to your landlord's fittings, fixings and furniture.

So, it's worth considering tenant's liability insurance, particularly if you're moving into a fully furnished property.

You should report a claim as soon as possible. You might be entitled to unlimited claims during your policy, but this depends on the amount you're covered for.

When you make a claim on your tenants' liability insurance, you have to pay a compulsory fixed excess amount. This is a fixed amount you pay towards a claim.

Voluntary excess is optional - choosing to pay a higher voluntary excess could bring the cost of your policy down. This is because insurers don’t have to pay as much in the event of a claim. But always make sure you can afford to pay it, in the event of a claim.

Each claim has different steps, but usually you should:

• Contact the police if a burglary has occurred.
• If you can’t stay at the property, contact your insurance provider immediately. This is important if another party is involved or there’s a risk of further damage.
• Check your home insurance documents or the company’s website to find the claims phone number and make a list of important facts about the incident.
• Contact your insurer to tell them you want to make a claim. You need to provide details including your policy number, address, and full name.
• Take photos for evidence and keep all receipts. Don't throw away damaged items - your home insurer may send a loss adjuster to asses the contents.
• Keep track of all communications between you and your insurer, the police or witnesses.
• Ask your insurer to approve any work that needs doing. Resist the temptation to get any repairs done until your insurer agrees, as you might not be able to claim for the costs.