Singing Pig

I only have the buildings insurance - mine covers floorings and white goods - all other items I state are the responsibility of the tenant.

I only need buildings insurance as a requirement of my mortgage, don't know whether this varies by lender

  I do recommend that my tenants take out contents insurance to protect their own belongings - but I do not enforce this as it is their choice!

most BTL buildings policies cover fixtures and fittings to the property .... i.e. everything that is fixed to the house.  the colloquial explanation often used is if you imagine being able to pick up a house (!!) and turn it upside down .... everything that DOESN'T fall out is "fixtures and fittings".  it does vary by insurer though.  when i quote the "sum insured" i usually add 20% ... just so that i'm well covered.  you would only need contents insurance if yo provide furnished accomodation. 

You need to look at the definition of "buildings" in the policy document very carefully.  Insurers don't generally regard carpets, curtains and white goods as fixtures and fittings.  If you want cover for those items in your rented property (and you only have buildings insurance) you should make sure that your insurer does include those items in its definition of buildings.  Then make a suitable allowance in your buildings sum insured.

If not, you'll need to add some contents cover in addition to buildings cover.