Tenants in Your Home. Are You Protected?
You’ve found a tenant, handed over the keys, and the rent’s coming in. Job done, right? Maybe not.
What most homeowners don’t realise is that once someone moves into your property, it’s not just your home anymore. Legally, you’ve handed over control – and if you haven’t put the right protection in place, you could be left wide open. From unexpected repairs to legal disputes and unpaid rent, protection isn’t just a ‘nice to have’ – it’s the safety net that keeps you sane and financially secure.
Here’s what you need to know.
It’s still your asset – but not your space
As the owner, it’s still your property. But in legal terms, once a tenant moves in, it becomes their home. That means you can’t just pop round, access the property without notice, or make big decisions without going through the proper channels. Fail to respect that, and it could be classed as harassment – or even illegal eviction.
Your insurance might not cover you
Standard home insurance often becomes void the moment you let a property. If something goes wrong – flood, fire, or a claim from a tenant – you might not be covered. Landlord insurance is designed to protect you for the real risks involved. No insurance = full financial liability on you.
Verbal agreements aren’t enough
It’s surprising how many informal lets start with a handshake and a bit of trust. But without a written agreement and the right legal documents served at the start, you’re on shaky ground. Trust is good. Paperwork is better.
Rent protection isn’t automatic
Even with a great tenant, life happens – redundancy, illness, relationship breakdown. If rent stops coming in, do you have a plan? Rent protection insurance can cover your income, legal fees, and help recover possession if needed. Without it, you’re absorbing the loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Do I need landlord insurance if I have a good tenant?
Yes. Good tenants lower the risk, but don’t remove it. Things can still go wrong – and standard policies won’t protect you. Landlord insurance is designed for these exact scenarios.
❓ What happens if a tenant refuses access?
If they say no – you can’t go in. Even if it’s your house. You must give proper notice, and unless it’s an emergency, you have to respect their right to quiet enjoyment. Push it too far, and you could face legal action.
❓ How do I prove damage was caused by the tenant?
With a proper inventory and regular inspections. Without clear, dated evidence, deposit deductions become very hard to justify. Courts tend to side with tenants if it’s your word against theirs.
❓ Can I get cover for lost rent or legal costs?
Yes. Many landlord insurance policies include rent guarantee cover and legal protection. It’s not always included by default, so make sure you check – or speak to a broker who understands landlord-specific risks.
You wouldn’t hand your car over without insurance – don’t do it with your home
Letting your property is a big deal. It’s not just about income – it’s about protecting the thing you’ve worked hard to build. Make sure you’ve got the right cover, the right setup, and the right team in your corner.
Need a second opinion on whether your rental setup is safe?
We’ll walk you through it.