What the rules say
Insurance isn't required by law, but GOV.UK says you should have buildings, contents and public liability cover suited to holiday letting. If you employ staff, such as a cleaner, employers' liability insurance is a legal requirement.
What to do
- Check the policy covers paying guests and short stays.
- Tell the insurer about hot tubs, wood burners and anything unusual.
- Record the renewal date here so it never lapses.
Elsewhere in the UK
Scotland: Buildings insurance for the life of the licence and public liability insurance for every let are mandatory licence conditions.
Tips from the field
- Platform guarantees such as AirCover are not a substitute for your own insurance.
- Missing safety certificates are one of the most common reasons claims are refused. Keep them all here.
Common questions
Is holiday let insurance a legal requirement?
Not in general, but GOV.UK says you should have buildings, contents and public liability cover suited to holiday letting. Employers' liability insurance is a legal requirement if you employ staff. In Scotland, buildings and public liability insurance are short-term let licence conditions.
Does home insurance cover paying guests?
Usually not. Standard home policies often exclude paying guests and short stays, so you need a policy written for holiday letting.
Is Airbnb AirCover a substitute for insurance?
No. Platform protection has its own limits and exclusions and only covers bookings made through that platform. Keep your own policy.
What makes insurers refuse holiday let claims?
Missing safety certificates are one of the most common reasons, along with hot tubs, wood burners or other risks you did not declare.
Do I need employers' liability insurance for my cleaner?
If you employ a cleaner directly, usually yes. If your cleaner is genuinely self-employed or comes through an agency, you may not, but it depends on how the work is arranged, so check with your insurer.
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Official sources
Costs are typical 2025/26 prices, not official figures. This is general information, not legal advice. Last checked 26 Sept 2026.