Property owners liability insurance covers your legal liability as a property owner if a third party — such as a tenant, visitor, or member of the public — is injured or their property is damaged as.
Property owners liability insurance covers your legal liability as a property owner if a third party — such as a tenant, visitor, or member of the public — is injured or their property is damaged as a result of a defect in or around your property. Common claims include slips and trips on poorly maintained paths or steps, injuries caused by falling masonry or tiles, and damage caused by water escaping from your property to a neighbouring property. The cover pays for legal defence costs and any compensation awarded.
Any person or business that owns property and allows others to access it — including landlords, commercial property owners, and property investors — should hold property owners liability insurance. It is typically included as standard in landlord insurance and commercial property insurance policies. If you own a property that is let to tenants, visited by contractors, or accessible to members of the public, you face potential liability claims that this cover addresses.
Property owners liability cover is typically available at limits of £1m, £2m, £5m, and £10m. For most residential landlords, £2m to £5m is appropriate. Commercial property owners and those with larger portfolios typically need higher limits. Some mortgage lenders and managing agents specify a minimum level of cover. Focus Insurance will advise on the appropriate limit for your specific portfolio and risk profile.
Property owners liability insurance is a specific form of public liability insurance designed for property owners. It covers claims arising from your ownership of a property, such as injuries caused by defects in the building or grounds. Standard public liability insurance covers claims arising from your business activities more broadly. For landlords and property investors, property owners liability is the appropriate cover.
Yes. Property owners liability insurance covers claims from tenants who are injured as a result of a defect in your property, such as a broken step, faulty handrail, or poorly maintained common area. It does not cover claims arising from the tenant's own negligence or from defects that the tenant was responsible for maintaining.
Yes. Property owners liability insurance is typically included as standard in landlord insurance policies. Check your policy schedule to confirm the level of cover included and whether it is adequate for your portfolio.
Cover is subject to underwriting, insurer terms and acceptance. Focus Insurance Services is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 717691).