What is tenants liability insurance?

Tenants liability insurance is designed to cover the cost of accidental damage you might cause to the furniture, carpets, fixtures and fittings that came with the property you rent.

Spilled red wine on the carpet? Put a foot through a door by mistake? It happens. This type of insurance could help cover the cost of repairs or replacements, which means your landlord’s happy, and you’re less likely to lose your deposit when you move out.

It’s particularly useful if you’re renting a furnished property, where there’s simply more that could go wrong – and more to be held responsible for.

Do I really need tenants liability cover?

While tenants liability insurance isn’t a legal must-have, it can be a real lifesaver. It helps protect your deposit by covering accidental damage to your landlord’s things, like stained carpets, cracked tiles or broken furniture.

For just a few pounds a month, you could save hundreds if something goes wrong. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind. But don’t get it confused with contents insurance. The two types of cover protect different things:

Tenants liability insurance

Covers accidental damage to your landlord’s belongings – carpets, fixtures, fittings and furniture that came with the property.

Contents insurance for renters

Covers your own possessions – everything from electronics and clothes to kitchen kit and valuables.

Some insurers bundle both together, or you can buy each one separately depending on your needs.

What does tenants liability insurance cover you for?

Tenants liability insurance typically covers the cost of fixing or replacing things in your rented home that belong to your landlord. Depending on your chosen insurer and policy, tenants liability insurance may include:

  • Fitted kitchens: Covers things like worktops, cupboards, flooring, and even electrical cables or pipes.

  • Built-in furniture: Such as fitted wardrobes, shelves, or storage units that came with the home.

  • Plumbed-in or integrated appliances: Like a built-in dishwasher or washing machine you didn’t bring with you.

  • Fixtures and fittings: Think doors, radiators, light fittings and other fixed features.

  • Decor and paintwork: If you accidentally damage walls, wallpaper or paint, you may be covered for redecoration.

  • Carpets and flooring: Includes spills or damage to carpets, vinyl or laminate flooring.

All of these usually apply to accidental damage, and won’t cover general wear and tear or intentional damage. Also, policies tend to cover you up to a fixed amount, for example £10,000.

Do check the policy details – and make sure your rental agreement includes an inventory so you know what is yours and what belongs to your landlord.

What isn’t covered?

Tenants liability insurance won’t cover everything, so it’s good to know the limits before you buy.

Any damage caused deliberately, whether by you, someone in your family, or anyone you let into your home, isn’t covered. The same goes for theft or attempted theft involving you or your household.

Plus, wear and tear or damage that happens gradually over time won’t be covered either. This insurance is really about those unexpected accidents, not everyday aging of the property.

Home insurance guides

Answering your questions about tenants liability insurance

Compare more types of home insurance cover

Explore your home insurance options to find a policy that’s best for you and your property.

You might also be interested in

Page updated on 12th November 2025, Reviewed by Richard Groom