Cover is the first of several commercial products to be rolled out this month

Direct Line has launched a new insurance product for buy to let residential property owners.

The policy has been developed for buy to let owners and property investors with a portfolio of up to five properties. Cover includes buildings and public liability plus various add on options, such as cover for landlords contents and loss of rent if the property becomes uninhabitable following a loss.

It also covers as standard alternative accommodation costs as well as unauthorized use of gas, electricity or water.

The policy is available via the umbrella brand 'Direct Line for Business', and is part of a new suite of products being made available over the coming month. Other products in the range include tradesman, commercial property owners insurance and shop insurance.

The policies are a natural extension to the existing Direct Line product range and are aimed at individuals and small businesses, the company said.

Customers can benefit from two separate, special launch offers: a fixed premium for two years, and the ability to pay by monthly installments at no extra cost.

Gill Murphy, Spokesperson at Direct Line for Business, commented: "Direct Line is one of the UK's leading car and home insurers and the launch of these products is great news for small businesses who can now take advantage of the benefits of being a Direct Line customer."