The building is covered under a general insurance policy which is paid through the service charges. A full copy of the policy or a copy of the schedule giving a summary of the cover is available from the managing agent, to whom you should apply. The managing agent can provide this information electronically or by hard copy.

As a general guide only the buildings insurance covers the undernoted:

  • Damage from storm, tempest etc.;
  • Damage caused by flooding;
  • Damage from burst pipes external to flats (but not the cost of repairing the pipe);
  • Landslip and heave;
  • Subsidence (subject to an increased excess);
  • Damage from fire.

The policy document provides full details of the cover and is a lengthy document approaching 40 pages. It follows that the following is simply a synopsis.

The insurers may seek to repudiate cover in circumstances where the terms of the policy have not been followed. For example, where there is a leaking pipe which has been left unrepaired or where the property has been sub-let or left empty for a period in excess of two weeks without giving notification to the managing agent (who will notify the insurers).

You MUST notify the managing agent in relation to any of the undernoted:

  • You must take appropriate action if the property is going to remain vacant for any period in excess of two weeks. Appropriate action would include the turning off and draining down of water systems where the flat is to remain unheated during potentially cold weather (where the heating and hot water systems permit such isolation); the shutting down of electrical appliances where this does not prejudice Health & Safety and having the flat inspected on a weekly basis with such inspections properly recorded.
  • If you are sub-letting your flat.
  • If you are sub-letting you flat to students, refugees, asylum seekers or social service placements.

If you fail to notify any of the foregoing you run the risk that your insurance cover may be reduced in part or in whole. The insurer may apply an increase in premium which you would be required to pay.

Unless you make appropriate arrangements it is likely that certain aspects of the insurance cover may not apply to your tenants. For example, alternative accommodation may not be available to your tenant as a consequence of fire or flood. If you propose to sublet your flat you should make enquiries with the managing agent to see what additional cover might be available and the extent of the cover currently available in such circumstances. The managing agent will charge for the flat owner for this service. Please note that each and every claim will be judged on its merits and nothing herein is intended to convey otherwise.