Research from Let Risks shows that 42% of insurance claims by tenants are for damage to flooring with the humble iron being the number one culprit. Second on the list is damage to furniture at 22% followed by damage to the property at 18%. Damage to the building which includes blinds, curtains, décor and outside areas has an average claim of £566. Only 8% of claims are for fire and smoke damage although unsurprisingly these are the largest claims with the average amount being £4,692. Water damage makes up 10% of all claims with an average claim being in the region of £700. Michael Portman, Managing Director of Let Risks, says “This highlights the risks of letting a property and the need for both tenants and landlords to protect their interests. Recent TDS stats show that general damage to the landlords’ property constitutes 45% of tenant disputes. A well prepared inventory is paramount, as this will help protect the landlord against a dispute, A thorough and professional check in and check out at the start and end of a tenancy is a must. Whilst many tenants take out insurance cover for their possessions, this is a useful reminder for both tenants and landlords to consider the risks and how they could minimize them, by taking out the appropriate levels of insurance. Specialist tenant policies cover accident damage to landlords’ property which helps protect the deposit and provides peace of mind.”