Landlords Insurance may cover certain damage caused by tenants, but the protection varies between insurers and policies. Malicious damage, accidental damage, wear and tear, poor housekeeping and neglect are not treated in the same way.

What is malicious tenant damage? #

Malicious or intentional damage is deliberate damage caused by a tenant or another person allowed at the property.

Some Landlords Insurance policies include this protection, while others apply specific limits, excesses or exclusions.

Is accidental tenant damage covered? #

Accidental damage may be included automatically, available as an optional benefit or excluded, depending on the insurer. Check the policy wording rather than assuming every unintended incident is covered.

What is usually not covered? #

Landlords Insurance generally does not cover gradual deterioration or the normal effects of occupation. Common examples can include:

• Wear and tear.
• Poor housekeeping.
• Lack of maintenance.
• Gradual damage.
• Pre-existing damage.
• Damage that cannot be supported by suitable evidence.

The exact exclusions depend on the policy.

How can I support a tenant damage claim? #

Good records help the insurer distinguish insured damage from pre-existing problems or deterioration. Keep:

• A detailed entry condition report.
• Dated photographs.
• Routine inspection reports.
• Maintenance and repair records.
• The exit condition report.
• The tenancy agreement and relevant correspondence.

Notify Webber Insurance promptly if damage is discovered. Where safe, take reasonable steps to prevent further damage, but avoid committing to substantial permanent repairs before the insurer has had an opportunity to assess the loss.