# What is the difference between landlord buildings and contents insurance?

> Quick answer · Last updated 4 July 2026

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## In short

Landlord buildings insurance covers the structure you own — walls, roof, floors, fixed fittings. Landlord contents covers movable items you provide — carpets, curtains, appliances. Tenants' personal belongings are never covered by your policy.

Mortgage lenders require buildings insurance with their interest noted. Check accidental damage and subsidence excesses.

Contents sums should reflect replacement cost of fittings supplied with the let. Unfurnished lets need lower contents limits but may still cover white goods.

Tenants should buy renters' contents insurance — your policy will not pay for their laptops, bikes or clothes.

See landlord insurance explained for HMO and unoccupied let extensions.

## Related

- [Landlord insurance guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk/insurance/landlord-insurance-explained/)
- [Buildings vs contents](https://moneyguide.org.uk/insurance/buildings-vs-contents-insurance-explained/)

## Primary source

abi.org.uk

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.