Can landlords insure fixtures and fittings?

Fixtures and fittings are permanently fixed to the building or are not easy to remove, such as bathroom suites, flooring, and fitted kitchen units. 

Fixtures are permanently attached, or “fixed”, to the building structure. They typically can’t be removed without significant work or causing damage. 

Fittings are generally easier to remove but still attached to the building in some way. 

Fixtures and fittings can include: 

• Bathroom suites – including toilets, sinks and bathtubs 
• Fitted kitchen units and cabinets 
• Fixed floor coverings 
• Fixed lights 
• Integrated radiators, boilers and similar appliances. 

Freestanding wardrobes and white goods, such as washing machines, are easy to remove without causing damage, so they are typically covered by contents insurance. 

Please refer to the policy documents for the full details of inclusions and exclusions of this cover. Policy documents are available when purchasing online. You can also contact our customer services team for more information.

Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, (external link) landlords are responsible for most repairs in their rental properties. This typically includes keeping fixtures and fittings in repair and proper working order.

Landlords might insure fixtures and fittings for various reasons. However, many landlords insurance policies include fixtures and fittings as standard, so you might not need to buy separate coverage. 

Investment protection 

Repairing or replacing appliances and installations can be expensive. Insuring fixtures and fittings can provide peace of mind and protection for your investment. 

Tenant satisfaction and reassurance 

Well-maintained fixtures and fittings can help to improve tenant satisfaction and retention. When tenants know that essential items are insured and will be promptly repaired or replaced if damaged, it provides reassurance about their living conditions. 

Legal obligations 

Landlords might be legally obligated to repair or replace essential items like boilers quickly if they break down. Fixtures and fittings insurance can help you avoid potential legal action or rental income loss from uninhabitable conditions.¹ 

Mortgage requirements 

Buy-to-let mortgages may require comprehensive insurance coverage to ensure the property value is protected. Buildings insurance, including fixtures and fittings cover, can help you comply.²

Landlords can insure fixtures and fittings as part of their buildings insurance. 

1. Assess the value of fixtures and fittings – create an inventory of all permanent fixtures, sourcing professional valuations for high-value items. This is part of your Buildings Sum Insured (BSI), and helps determine the cost, and extent, of your coverage. 
2. Get quotes – contact landlords insurance providers, comparing coverage limits and exclusions based on the cost of rebuilding or replacing your buildings and any fixtures and fittings that are lost or damaged in an insured event. 
3. Finalise your policy – review policy excess options, making sure the coverage you choose is adequate and matches any buy-to-let mortgage requirements.

Disclaimer:

Our FAQ pages provide general information and background around the topic covered. FAQ pages are reviewed and monitored periodically by our insurance experts. But the content is not intended to be read as advice and any material is for general information purposes only. If you would like advice for any content, please seek professional assistance.