Insurance Considerations for Leaseholders in Listed Blocks of Flats

Sinead Campbell from Flat Living Insurance looks at the insurance considerations for leaseholders who live in listed blocks of flats.

Leaseholders residing in listed buildings face unique challenges when it comes to securing the right insurance. Unlike standard residential properties, historic buildings require specialist coverage to protect their architectural integrity while meeting modern insurance needs.

Understanding the key considerations for insurance in these properties is essential for ensuring adequate protection and financial security. It will also bring some clarity to the cost of the insurance detailed in service charge demands.

Understanding the Insurance Needs of Leaseholders in Listed Buildings

Leaseholders of listed buildings are usually covered by a Flats insurance policy. This is typically arranged by the freeholder or Residents’ Management Company (RMC). For modern buildings, finding the right coverage at the right price is relatively straightforward, but for listed buildings, bespoke packages are usually required.

Specialist flats insurance brokers may need to be involved to make sure the policy is sufficient for the needs of the building. Listed building policies typically include:

• Structural protection: Coverage for the physical structure of the property, including walls, roofs and communal areas.

• Reinstatement via traditional materials and methods: In the event of damage, repairs must comply with heritage standards and use appropriate materials and methods to maintain the building in as close to its original state as possible.

• Public liability coverage: Protection against claims related to accidents occurring in shared spaces.

Leaseholders should always review new policy details to ensure they are satisfied with the coverage and premium.

Leaseholder Contents Insurance Policies

• Leaseholders in listed buildings may also require additional policies to protect their personal belongings and investments. Contents insurance will cover furniture, interior fittings and belongings held within an individual flat owned by the Leaseholder. For full peace of mind Leaseholders can take out Accidental Damage Cover.

Liability Considerations

Leaseholders should also ensure the Insurance policy also covers:

• Cover for damage to other flats in the block due to internal issues such as water damage.
• Legal Expenses Cover
• Loss of Rent or Alternative Accommodation: Protection against financial losses or costs if the property becomes uninhabitable.

Lastly, listed buildings are subject to strict restoration and repair regulations. Standard policies may not provide adequate coverage for the specialist workmanship and materials involved, or the longer timescales involved in planning, approval and specialist contractor sourcing.

The Value of a Specialist Insurance Broker

The benefit of working with an experienced insurance broker who understands the complexities of heritage property protection cannot be understated.

A knowledgeable broker will assess the individual needs of the building and its residents, identify any gaps in a standard buildings insurance policy and ensure around listed and historic buildings are catered for.

For an exact quote for the needs of your block, you can email your postcode and the number of lifts and floors in the building to info@flatlivinginsurance.co.uk or complete our online form. If you have any questions or would prefer a quote over the phone, please call us on 0333 577 2044.