Paymentshield said the move will help it support a wider group of landlords through its intermediary network

Paymentshield has expanded its landlord insurance panel with the addition of managing general agent and underwriter Arkel.

Arkel’s product, backed by global specialist insurer AmTrust, covers a broad range of landlord risk profiles.

Paymentshield said the move will help it support a wider group of landlords through its intermediary network.

The addition also strengthens Paymentshield’s ability to serve landlords operating through limited companies, a segment that some insurers have been cautious about underwriting but where the provider has seen growing demand.

The policy also includes cover for landlords renting to students, a tenant group that insurers often classify as higher risk due to the potential for accidental damage, theft or malicious damage.

Paymentshield said the expansion comes at a time of significant change for the private rented sector (PRS) as landlords prepare for reforms introduced under the Renters’ Rights Act.

Nasar Hussain, associate director intermediated household at Paymentshield, said: This new addition to our Landlord Insurance panel comes at the beginning of what’s set to be a year of big change for landlords.

With the Renters Rights Act being rolled out in May, it’s now more important than ever for landlords to have the peace of mind of quality insurance to protect their property, he said.

We’re planning to further expand our Landlord Insurance panel over the coming months to enhance our offering by introducing new additional capabilities, he said.

He added: We carry out extensive due diligence on all our insurance partners which means our policyholders can be confident they are getting products designed to support them when it matters most.