Tenants are not normally obliged to take out a buildings insurance policy as this is the responsibility of the landlord. The landlord will not, however, be responsible if your possessions are taken from the property or damaged by you or another person. The contents of your home are covered in the same way as a home owner.

A burglar will rob a home regardless of whether you are renting. If the fabric of the building is damaged i.e a door kicked in, then the landlord should have special landlords insurance to cover the cost.

As a tenant of a Local Authority home, it is your responsibility to ensure your household contents and personal possessions.

One in four students is said to be a victim of crime, If you are living on campus or in a shared house with lots of people coming and going, it is important that you make your living area as secure as possible, some insurers offer bespoke student insurance.

When you decide to insure your home contents, you will need to list all the items you would like covered, making sure you do not over or under estimate the value of your personal belongings. If you have an expensive item such as a watch or painting, make sure it is mentioned to your insurers and have it covered separately. You can always contact your insurance provider if you would like to have any additional item/s added to the original policy. As with all insurance products it is worth shopping around for the best quote and if you don't claim you can see your original premium reduced.

Your landlord will be required to ensure your home is reasonably secure but will not be obliged to add an alarm to the premises. You could negotiate with the landlord and have one fitted, this will make the property and your belongings safer and could result in cheaper premiums.