Are You Covered by Insurance If You Sublet Your Rented Home?

If you rent a property in England, you may be wondering whether your renters’ insurance or your landlord’s insurance will still protect you if you sublet your home, even on a short-term basis. Subletting is increasingly common, but it does raise both legal and insurance considerations. This guide explains what cover you have, what steps to follow, and the official forms and bodies you may need to contact if you are thinking of subletting.

What Is Subletting and Is It Legal in England?

Subletting means letting out all or part of your rented property to another person (a “subtenant”). Under most tenancy agreements in England, you cannot sublet without your landlord’s written permission. If you sublet without this consent, you may be in breach of your tenancy agreement and risk eviction. Subletting rules are set out in the Housing Act 1988 and your tenancy contract.^[1]

Does Renters’ or Landlord’s Insurance Cover Subletting?

Insurance cover can become complicated when subletting is involved. In most cases, subletting is not automatically included in either the landlord’s building insurance or a tenant’s contents insurance. Here is what you need to know:

• Landlord’s Insurance: Typically covers the building and landlord’s contents, but often excludes cover if the tenant is not following the tenancy agreement (such as subletting without permission).
• Tenants’ Contents Insurance: Protects your personal items against theft, fire, or damage, but policies usually require you to declare if the property is being sublet. Not declaring subletting could make your policy invalid.
• Public Liability: Most policies provide liability cover (for example, if someone is injured in your home), but this may be void if unreported subletting occurs.

Before you sublet, you should:

• Check your tenancy agreement thoroughly
• Contact your landlord in writing to ask for permission
• Notify your insurer about your plans to sublet—get written confirmation that you will remain covered

Official Steps and Forms: Subletting Your Rented Home

If your landlord agrees to let you sublet, it’s important to document everything. The following steps and forms apply:

• Written Permission from Landlord: There is no standard government form for subletting, but ask your landlord to confirm their consent in writing. This protects both parties if claims arise.
• Tenancy Agreement Amendment: If subletting is permitted, ask for an updated tenancy contract or a written addendum.
• Notify Your Insurer: Inform your insurer as soon as you know you’ll sublet. Provide details of the arrangement and request confirmation of continued coverage.
• If your landlord refuses permission and you proceed, they may start eviction proceedings under the Section 8 Notice procedure.^[2]

Relevant Form Example: Section 8 Notice (Form 3)

• Form name and number: Section 8 Notice Seeking Possession (Form 3)
• When it’s used: If you sublet without permission, your landlord can serve a Section 8 notice to seek eviction based on breach of tenancy.
• Where to find it: Official GOV.UK site: Section 8 Notice (Form 3)

The tribunal that handles residential tenancy disputes in England is the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) – Residential Property.^[3]

Risks of Not Disclosing Subletting to Your Insurer

If you do not declare subletting, you risk:

• Having your insurance policy cancelled or refused at claim time
• Being personally liable for damage or injury caused by your subtenant
• Facing eviction for breaking your tenancy terms

In summary, always clarify your status with both your landlord and your insurer. This ensures you stay protected and don’t risk your home or your finances.

FAQ: Renters’ Insurance and Subletting in England

1. Does my landlord’s insurance cover my belongings when I sublet?
   No. Your landlord’s policy typically only covers the building and their own contents, not your possessions or those of a subtenant.
2. Will my own contents insurance still cover me if I sublet?
   Only if you inform your insurer and have their approval in writing. Failing to tell them could invalidate your policy, leaving you without cover.
3. What should I do if my landlord refuses permission to sublet?
   You should not proceed. Unauthorized subletting is a breach of your tenancy and could result in eviction via a Section 8 notice.
4. Can I sublet my room under a joint tenancy?
   Typically, you still need written permission from your landlord. All joint tenants should agree as well. Review your tenancy contract and check with your landlord directly.
5. Who handles disputes about subletting or eviction?
   The First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) – Residential Property in England deals with tenancy disputes including subletting issues.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways on Insurance and Subletting

• Never assume you are insured if you plan to sublet—always check your policy and get written confirmation from your insurer.
• Subletting without your landlord’s consent could risk both your tenancy and your insurance protection.
• Use official forms and notify all parties in writing to stay compliant and covered.

Understanding renters’ rights around subletting and insurance helps protect your home, your belongings, and your peace of mind.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• GOV.UK: Private Renting – Official government guidance on rights, responsibilities, and subletting.
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) – For tenancy disputes and eviction cases.
• Shelter England – Free advice for all private renters on their rights and options.
• Shelter’s Helpline – Direct support for urgent housing issues: 0808 800 4444.

---

1. Housing Act 1988
2. Section 8 Notice (Form 3)
3. First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent, Deposits & Increases Tenancy Types & Agreements Moving In & Out Procedures Repairs, Maintenance & Housing Standards Eviction Notices & Repossessions Shared Housing, HMOs & Lodgers Discrimination, Harassment & Accessibility Utilities, Bills & Council Tax Affordable Housing, Social Housing & Benefits Dispute Resolution & Housing Tribunals Health, Safety & Fire Regulations Privacy, Landlord Entry & Surveillance Unusual & Special Tenancy Situations Renters’ Insurance & Liability Homelessness Support & Post-Eviction Help Landlord Duties, Licensing & Penalties Housing Law, Legal Updates & Case Studies Mental Health, Disability & Vulnerable Renters’ Rights Rent Repayment Orders & Compensation