What buildings insurance covers in a block of flats is decided by two documents read together: the policy, which says what perils are covered, and the lease, which says where your flat ends and the structure begins. Almost every dispute in this area is about the second rather than the first.
What the block policy covers
The structure: roof, external walls, foundations, floors between flats, and the common parts including stairwells, lifts, plant and shared services. Property owners liability for injuries in the common parts. Usually the fixed fittings inside each flat up to the line the lease draws. Frequently alternative accommodation or loss of rent after an insured event.
What it leaves to you
Contents, and anything the lease demises to the flat rather than retaining as structure. That commonly includes internal decoration and fixtures, and varies on windows, floorboards and any improvements made since the lease was granted. Your own liability as an occupier or as a landlord letting the flat.
Where the line is argued
Windows are the classic case, followed by the internal face of external walls and anything a previous owner installed. The demise clause in your lease settles it, and reading it once, before there is a claim, is the difference between knowing the answer and negotiating it with a managing agent.
Questions people ask about what does buildings insurance cover in a block of flats
Does the block policy cover my contents?
No. Contents are the leaseholder's, along with anything the lease demises to the flat rather than retaining as structure.
Who pays for a broken window?
It depends on the demise clause in your lease. Some leases include the windows in the flat and some leave them with the structure.
Does it cover alternative accommodation?
Frequently, where a flat is uninhabitable after an insured event. Check the schedule, because the limit and period vary.