Why has our buildings insurance gone up?
The main causes, your right to information, and what reform will change.
Reviewed by Mark Cunningham AssocRICS MTPI MIFSM, Leasehold Director. Last reviewed 3 October 2026.
Premiums for blocks of flats have risen across the market. Common causes are rebuild cost inflation, claims history (especially escape of water), and fire safety concerns, including external walls.
Your right to information
Leaseholders can ask for a summary of the insurance cover and inspect the policy, under the Schedule to the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985.
Commissions
Any commission or fee earned by the landlord or agent for placing insurance should be disclosed. The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 will replace commissions with a transparent, permitted handling fee once the rules are in force.
What helps
- An up-to-date rebuild valuation
- Fixing the causes of repeat leaks
- A current fire risk assessment and external wall information
Sources
Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 (legislation.gov.uk)The Property Institute: update on the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024RICS Service Charge Residential Management Code, 4th editionHow we can help
Full block managementSection 20 major worksAJ LiteWe provide block management across Southport, Churchtown and Kew, Birkdale and Ainsdale, Formby, Ormskirk and Aughton, Crosby and Maghull, Bootle and Litherland, Liverpool, Hesketh Bank and Tarleton and Preston, Penwortham and Longton. For the law in brief, see Know the law.General information about the law in England, not advice on a particular building.