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Types of application to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)

Insurance through the landlord’s nominated insurer

In this guide

These rights are set out in Section 164 of the Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Act 2002 and Paragraph 8 of the Schedule to the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985.

Some leases, usually those relating to houses, may say that you must insure the property through an insurer nominated or approved by your landlord. You may feel you could get cheaper insurance from a different company, or you may be concerned about the cover provided.

You can arrange your own insurance, as long as you give your landlord notice and meet the requirements of section 164 of the Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Act 2002 concerning the insurance cover provided. There are more details in our information on buildings insurance.

There is another way to deal with problems which arise from ‘nominated insurer’ clauses in leases (for both houses and flats). Under the schedule to the 1985 act, you or your landlord can apply to the tribunal for a decision on whether:

  • the insurance provided by the landlord’s nominated or approved insurer is not satisfactory in any way; or
  • the cost of the insurance is too expensive.

You and your landlord cannot apply to the tribunal for a decision if:

  • you have agreed the cost is reasonable or admitted responsibility for paying
  • the matter has already been decided by a court or by arbitration; or
  • the matter will be referred to arbitration under an arbitration agreement

The sort of issues the tribunal may look at include the following:

  • Is the cover adequate or excessive?
  • Is the cover lacking in any respect?
  • Is the insurer a competent and reputable company?
  • Is the cost of the insurance reasonable value?
  • Could you get similar cover for a lower price?

If the tribunal agree that the insurance arrangements are not satisfactory, they may make an order requiring your landlord to:

  • nominate the insurer named in the order; or
  • nominate another insurer, which meets the specific requirements set out in the order
Last updated:
11 May 2025
Next review:
18 December 2026