General insurance provider Berkeley Alexander has upgraded its landlord buy-to-let product, with reduced premium rates across the majority of postal areas. 

It also introduces full cover for unoccupied property for up to 60 days from the policy start date, allowing landlords time to find a tenant.

Geoff Hall, managing director of Berkeley Alexander, said: “We already offer a wide range of landlords-related insurance via our online quote and buy system, and whilst we’re already catering for most customer scenarios, this was one area where we identified a gap in the market.

“When a landlord buys a property, it is generally unoccupied to begin with as it takes time for the landlord to find and install tenants. Landlords have found it difficult to secure appropriate buildings cover for that period, as many insurers will restrict cover from day one or not offer cover at all.

“The upgrade of our product with Covéa Insurance means that landlords in this position will now have full cover for up to 60 days from the policy start date to allow them time to find a tenant. If the property is still unoccupied after 60 days, then cover can continue for a further 30 days, but with restrictions. If it is still unoccupied after 90 days, then cover must cease, but at that point we at Berkeley Alexander can arrange a specialist unoccupied property policy for them.”