Frequently asked questions – Building insurance for rented property
Do I need a separate policy for rental?
Yes. Not every regular building insurance covers rentals. Choose a policy that explicit rental allows (temporarily or permanently) and states it usage type (private rental, room rental, short stay).
What is the difference between buildings, contents and liability (owner)?
Building it assures building/fixed parts (walls, roof, kitchen, sanitary facilities, solar panels). Contents is separate (furniture) — often at the expense of the tenant, unless you rent furnished. Owner liability (building owner) concerns damage caused by the building (loose roof tile, leakage) to third parties.
Is damage caused by a tenant covered?
Accidental damage (e.g. fire/water) can fall under buildings. Intentional, vandalism or theft by the tenant is often ruled out. Appointments in the rental contract and deposit remain important.
Can I insure rental loss after fire or major damage?
Yes, via tenant loss/rent loss: reimbursement of missed rent during recovery, up to a maximum (e.g. 52 weeks or a percentage of the sum). Check the term and limit .
Do I have to report vacancy or change of tenants?
Usually yes. Vacancy > X weken or change in use (e.g. short-stay) you must report; this may affect conditions/premium.
What about short‑stay/Airbnb or room rental?
This falls often not under standard rental. There are policies/conditions that short stay or room rental permit, sometimes with additional requirements (security, maximum occupancy).
Is glass included as standard?
Not always. Glass cover can be separate. In apartments, glass can be installed in the HOA building traps; check the division deed/policy.
Does sustainability (solar panels, heat pump, charging station) fall under building?
Yes, these are usually fixed installations and are covered by buildings - report them with value. Some insurers charge extra prevention/connection requirements .
What if it is an apartment with a homeowners' association?
Often the building via the VvE. You then only insure yourself landlord's contents (furnished) or Liability as owner. Check what the homeowners' association policy already covers (glass, solar panels, renovations).
What prevention and maintenance requirements apply?
Think about smoke detectors, sound locks (e.g. SKG), central heating/roof maintenance and electricity. Failure to comply may affect coverage. Make agreements with the tenant.
Are renovations and maintenance maintenance covered?
During the day renovation sometimes apply construction/renovation clauses (limited coverage, additional requirements). Report major changes (bathroom/kitchen, dormer window) in advance.
What is the deductible and how do I keep premiums competitive?
A higher deductible often lowers the premium. Premium is determined by zip code region, property type/value, occupation and prevention (locks, fire safety).
What information do you need for a quick quote?
Address/residential object (year of construction, type, roof covering), rebuilding value, usage (rental form), prevention (locks/smoke detectors), installations (solar panels/heat pump), vacancy and desired extras (glass, rental loss) .
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Please note: exact coverage, clauses and acceptance vary per insurer. We compare and arrange this custom for rented houses and apartments.
