Why turn to a specialist broker instead of going direct?
It’s easy to lose an afternoon scrolling through insurer websites, comparing what feels like endless policies, only to find later that the “perfect deal” missed something important. Maybe rent default cover, maybe liability. That’s where brokers earn their keep. They do the legwork, often opening doors to insurers you wouldn’t stumble across on your own. For landlords with trickier setups like HMOs, student lets, or short-term rentals, that extra help can mean the difference between proper cover and a nasty gap.
What does a landlord insurance broker actually do?
A broker sits in the middle between you and the insurers. They’re not tied to one provider, so their role is to find a policy that fits your properties, your tenants, and your risks. In practice that usually means:
- Digging into your needs, from property type to tenant mix.
- Checking across a panel of insurers, including niche ones not listed on comparison sites.
- Negotiating premiums and terms on your behalf.
- Explaining exclusions in plain English so you know exactly what is and isn’t covered.
- Backing you up during claims when things get messy.
If you juggle more than one property or run anything other than a straightforward let, that kind of guidance can save time, money, and a lot of hassle.
Why many landlords turn to brokers
Plenty of landlords assume a broker will cost more. Often the opposite is true. Brokers uncover cover options tailored to risks you’d probably miss online. The benefits look like this:
- Expert knowledge: Some focus purely on landlord insurance, which helps when you’re dealing with unusual situations.
- Access to hidden markets: Not every insurer advertises to the public, but brokers often have connections.
- Human advice: Talking to someone who knows property beats squinting through jargon-filled PDFs.
- Support in claims: When disputes crop up, a broker can fight your corner.
Specialist landlord brokers worth knowing
The UK has plenty of brokers, but a handful of names pop up often in landlord forums and discussions:
Alan Boswell Group
Well known in landlord circles, Alan Boswell has built a reputation for thorough, tailored cover. From single lets to large portfolios, they offer broad options and extras such as rent guarantee and legal expenses.
Hamilton Fraser
Best known for deposit protection, Hamilton Fraser also offers landlord cover. They’re praised for their grasp of regulations, which helps landlords who worry about compliance as much as they do about cover.
Simply Business (Broker Platform)
Simply Business runs as a broker platform, giving quick access to a wide panel of providers. It works well for standard lets but can also connect landlords to more niche policies if needed.
Arthur J. Gallagher
Gallagher is a heavyweight in the commercial insurance world, but they also arrange landlord policies. Their size gives them leverage with insurers, which can benefit landlords with big portfolios or mixed-use properties.
Adrian Flux
Often associated with motor insurance, Adrian Flux also works in property. They’re known for handling non-standard cases such as unusual buildings, properties with subsidence history, or tenants other insurers shy away from.
How do brokers make money?
This is one of the first questions landlords ask. Most brokers are paid commission by the insurer when a policy is arranged, so you don’t usually pay extra. Some may add a small admin fee. Always ask upfront so you know exactly where you stand.
When is a broker worth it?
If you own one low-risk property, a comparison site may be fine. But a broker starts to make sense if:
- You manage HMOs, student lets, or short-term rentals.
- Your property is listed or has quirks that make insurers hesitate.
- You’ve struggled with cover or had claims rejected.
- You want clear advice on extras such as rent guarantee, flood protection, or subsidence.
- You’re growing a portfolio and want a joined-up policy structure.
In these situations, a broker’s experience can save more than it costs.
Choosing the right broker
Not all brokers are the same. A few questions to ask before you commit:
- How many insurers do they work with?
- Do they specialise in landlord or property cover?
- What help do they give during claims?
- Do they add admin fees on top of premiums?
- What do other landlords say in independent reviews?
The right broker will be open with answers. If they dodge the questions, move on.
Are brokers always the better choice?
Not always. Sometimes a direct insurer offers a discount you won’t get through a broker. The trade-off is that brokers give variety, advice, and support. If your let is simple, direct cover may do the job. For anything more complicated, a broker usually proves their worth.
Final thoughts: brokers as allies
Landlord insurance is about more than ticking a box. It’s about protecting your investment and avoiding nasty surprises. The best brokers act as allies, not salespeople. They help you avoid gaps, weak cover, or claims headaches. Whether you go with a big name like Alan Boswell, a niche option like Adrian Flux, or a platform like Simply Business, the end goal is the same: confidence that your properties are properly protected.