Busting Common Misconceptions About Landlord Home Emergency Insurance in the UK

Landlord home emergency insurancecan offer valuable support in urgent situations — but it’s often misunderstood. Many landlords assume it covers far more than it actually does, or confuse it with other types of property protection. 

To help landlords make informed decisions, let’s clarify what landlord home emergency insurance is (and isn’t) by addressing common misconceptions. 

Misconception 1: It Covers All Property Repairs 

Reality: 

Landlord emergency insurance is not a comprehensive repair or maintenance policy. It is designed to help resolve sudden and unexpected emergencies, depending on your selected policy and coverage limits. 

Typically covered incidents may include: 

• Sudden boiler breakdowns 
• Burst pipes causing immediate damage 
• Complete failure of electrics 
• Pest infestations 
• Security issues (e.g., broken external door locks or windows after a break-in) 

Not typically covered: 

• Gradual wear and tear (e.g., ageing radiators) 
• Cosmetic issues 
• Mould or damp caused over time 
• Appliance repairs unless specifically included in the policy 

Always check your policy wording and schedule of cover for a full breakdown of inclusions and exclusions. 

Misconception 2: It’s the Same as Landlord Buildings Insurance 

Reality: 

These are two distinct types of cover: 

Buildings insurance typically covers long-term damage to the structure of a property due to fire, flood, storms, or other insured perils. 

Home emergency insuranceprovides a faster response in specific emergency situations, such as no heating or a blocked toilet. 

The two policies can work together but are not interchangeable. 

Misconception 3: You Can Claim for Any Emergency, Anytime 

Reality: 

All policies have limitations that should be clearly understood before purchasing. 

These may include: 

• A maximum number of call-outs per policy year 
• Claim limits per incident (e.g., £500–£1,000 depending on the policy) 
• Waiting periods (commonly 14–30 days from the policy start date before cover becomes active) 

Coverage is not available for all events or conditions. Refer to the policy documentation to understand what’s excluded. 

Misconception 4: Any Contractor Can Carry Out Repairs 

Reality: 

In most cases, insurers require policyholders to use a network of approved contractors. If a landlord chooses to hire their own tradesperson without authorisation, the insurer may not reimburse the cost. 

This is to ensure safety standards, service quality, and cost control are maintained. 

Misconception 5: It’s Not Needed If You Have a Letting Agent 

Reality: 

Letting agents may assist with coordinating maintenance, but they do not cover the cost of emergency repairs unless you have a separate agreement. Emergency insurance is designed to reduce your financial liability for covered incidents. 

It can also offer reassurance to tenants, knowing that urgent problems will be addressed swiftly. 

Misconception 6: Emergency Insurance Is Too Expensive 

Reality: 

Policies vary in price based on the level of cover, claim limits, and optional features. Many start from around£10–£25per month, depending on the provider and the specific terms of the plan. 

While not all policies will be cost-effective for every landlord, even a single incident — such as a heating failure on a cold weekend — could result in call-out fees exceeding£100. In those cases, having insurance could offset that cost, subject to the terms of your policy. 

Key Takeaway 

Landlord home emergency insuranceis not a blanket solution for all property issues, but it can be a practical and cost-effective layer of protection. By understanding what the policy covers, excludes, and requires, landlords can avoid unexpected costs and ensure appropriate support is in place for emergency repairs. 

Before purchasing a policy, always: 

Read the full policy wording 

Understand any excess, limitations, and waiting periods 

Clarify what contractors and services you are entitled to use