Protecting your investment - Tiscali Property

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So you've figured out where you want to buy, who your target tenants are, you've even found the right property and the right buy-to-let mortgage. So what else is there to sort out...?

A key issue is ensuring you protect your property. It's a major investment for you, so you need make sure you are properly covered. It's worth remembering that the rules that apply to your own house do not apply to your new buy-to-let property.

However there are a couple of basic requirements that you need to be aware of. These aren't optional extras, they are essential for your buy-to-let:

Boiler inspection certificate.

- To rent out any property you need an up-to-date inspection certificate. This shows prospective tenants that the boiler has been serviced and certified as being OK within the past 12 months. It's actually a legal requirement for you to keep this up to date.

Landlord insurance

- If you're renting out your buy-to-let you need what is known as Landlord Insurance. This covers you for what your tenants may get up to, and can cover things like accidental damage. As with your normal house insurance it can also cover both the building itself and contents. This is important if you need to get cover for beds, sofas, and kitchen equipment. There are a number of companies that provide landlord insurance.

To compare what each insurer offers, and to get instant quotes that you can pay for online, use Simply Business.