Understanding Public Liability Insurance for Holiday Lets

Renting out a holiday home means accidents can happen. If someone’s injured or their property is damaged, you could be held legally responsible. Public liability insurance for holiday lets can help protect you against costly claims and give you added peace of mind when guests stay at your property.

What is public liability insurance?

As a holiday let owner, you’re responsible for guests’ safety while they’re staying at your property.

Public liability insurance can help protect you if someone is injured or their belongings are damaged, and they decide to make a claim against you. This cover can support you with the legal and financial impact from incidents like slips, trips, or damage to a guest’s possessions.

Unlike standard home insurance, which often excludes holiday lets or guest stays, public liability cover can be tailored to short-term rentals and the unique risks holiday let owners face. Without it, an accident could lead to legal action, unexpected costs, and added stress.

What does public liability insurance for holiday homes cover?

It depends on your policy, but public liability insurance for holiday lets can include:

• Personal injury claims: Support if a guest is injured at your property and you’re found legally responsible.
• Damage to guest property: Cover if a guest’s belongings are accidentally damaged during their stay.
• Legal expenses: Help with legal costs if a claim is made against you.

Legal requirements for holiday rentals

Public liability insurance isn’t a legal requirement for holiday lets in the UK, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider it. Having public liability insurance could help protect you from costly claims and show guests that you take their safety seriously.

Many holiday letting platforms, local authorities, and management companies expect you to have it in place. Some may even require it before allowing you to list your property, especially if you’re running your let as a business.

The type of cover you opt for depends on how you let property. Some factors to consider include:

• How often you let the property
• The number and type of guests you host (families, etc.)
• Any added risks (like a swimming pool or steep steps)

Most holiday let owners choose public liability cover of between £2 million and £5 million. If you’re unsure, speak to a specialist to help assess your situation.

Cost of public liability insurance for holiday lets

The cost of public liability insurance for your holiday let varies depending on several factors, including:

• Property location: If your holiday let is in a busy area or high-risk location (e.g. flood zone), this could increase your premium.
• Property size and features: Larger properties or those with extras like hot tubs or pools may come with higher premiums due to added risk.
• Guest turnover: If you rent your property frequently or to large groups, insurers may see this as a higher risk of potential claims.
• Security and safety measures: Having safety protocols in place can show insurers that the property is more secure and at a reduced risk of claims.

Benefits of public liability insurance

Public liability insurance for your holiday let can be beneficial for several reasons:

• Peace of mind: Can give you the assurance that you’re covered if a guest is injured or their property is damaged.
• Financial protection: Insurance may help cover legal fees and compensation costs if someone makes a claim.
• Professionalism: Shows guests you take safety seriously and helps you handle incidents responsibly.
• Reputation management: A well-managed claim can protect your reputation as a trusted host.

How to reduce risk of claims at your holiday let

Reducing risk isn’t just about avoiding claims—it’s about preparing your property for guests and protecting your let.

Here are some simple steps you can take:

• Carry out regular inspections: Check for wear and tear, loose fittings, faulty electrics, or anything else that could pose a hazard.
• Put clear safety measures in place: Install smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, non-slip mats, handrails, and outdoor lighting where needed.
• Maintain high cleaning standards: Wet floors or clutter can easily lead to accidents. Make sure communal and high-traffic areas are clear and dry.
• Create a guest guide: Include practical info like how to use appliances safely, emergency contacts, and any house rules.
• Flag any risks in advance: If your property has stairs, uneven surfaces, or unique features (like open fires), warn guests before they arrive.
• Encourage responsible behaviour: If you allow pets, parties, or smoking, consider setting boundaries or taking deposits to manage potential damage.

How to select suitable holiday let insurance

Before choosing public liability insurance for your holiday let, consider the following:

• Check what’s included: Not all policies offer the same level of cover. Look for policies including personal injury, property damage, and legal expenses.
• Look at the cover limit: Many policies offer up to £2 million, but you might want more if you host large groups, or the property has added risks.
• Consider optional extras: Some insurers offer extras like accidental damage by guests or cover for malicious damage, which may be useful if you let your property regularly.
• Understand the exclusions: Always read the small print. Most policies won’t cover things like wear and tear, poor maintenance, or damage caused by pets.
• Compare providers: Don’t just go with the first quote. Compare what’s offered, how claims are handled, and whether you’ll have access to support if you need to make a claim.
• Choose a specialist: Some insurers focus on holiday lets specifically, which could mean more relevant cover and support tailored to how you use your property.

Stay protected while your guests relax

Letting out a holiday home comes with its share of responsibilities and risks. Public liability insurance isn’t a legal requirement, but it could help reduce the financial and legal impact of guest injuries or damage claims.

At Inta sure, we specialise in holiday let insurance, so we know how to help you find suitable cover for your property. Whether you have a holiday home abroad, coastal UK property, or city-centre apartment, we’re here to help you.

Here are some reasons to choose us:

• Specialist expertise: We’ve been providing tailored holiday let insurance solutions for almost two decades.
• Flexible policy options: Our policies can be customised with a range of optional covers to suit your lifestyle.
• UK-based support: Our friendly team is available to answer your questions, make changes to your policy, and assist with renewals.
• Highly rated customer service: We’re proud to have been rated Excellent on TrustPilot by customers like you.
• Quick and easy quotes: Speak to our advisors or use our online form to get a personalised quote.

**Correct as of 22/05/2025

Call us on 0345 111 0680 or fill in our online form to get your quote.