Conveyancing question - UK only?

Question

I have a dodgy landlord and need some advice. I am a homeowner.

The property which I live in has been separated into two flats. I only have an old copy of the buildings insurance which is for the original address and is in the Landlords name only. Should it not be in the homeowners names considering we are the ones paying it each year. Should he give us a copy of the renewed buildings insurance (which both flats pay for) each year.

Answer 1

If you are renting it is in the landlords name as he owns the property (so the insurance has to be in his interest). It is his responsibility to complete the insurance and should now obtain up to date cover.

Answer 2

Just so I am clear - you are the owner of a leasehold property (not a tennant), and have a 'dodgy' freeholder?

Buildings insurance often works a bit differently in leasehold situations - as its common for the buildings insurance (i.e. structural stuff) to be block bought, and be the responsibility of the freeholder / building agent (as there is more than one building to worry about). If this is the case, then buildings insurance should not be in your name - and should be paid out of your ground rent / service fees. You need to clarify if this is what you are paying for. If it is, its common for the leasee to pay this in one way or another - but not directly from their accounts to the insurance company. It seems logical to see a copy just to confirm it is in place, and that it will cover usual damage - in case something does go wrong.

Contents insurance is different, and will have to be arranged by you, and paid directly by you. It should have nothing to do with freeholder / landlord / service company.