Willis has announced the launch of a dedicated residential real estate team, expanding the capabilities of its real estate division.

The newly formed team will work across key residential niches including build-to-rent, student accommodation, ground rent investment, managing agents, retirement living, property investment and right to manage business.

The team is led by Naomi Palmer, divisional director, real estate practice and Shaun Grainger, residential development director, real estate practice. Palmer brings over 12 years' experience in the real estate insurance industry, specialising in managing large residential accounts, while Grainger has joined Willis with two decades of experience in sales, specialising in real estate clients and advisors.

Paul Turnbull, managing director of the real estate practice at Willis, said: “We’re continuously looking to evolve and improve how we deliver services to clients and through launching this newly dedicated team, we seek to elevate the standard of residential insurance.

“Collectively, the team brings a deep understanding of the residential landscape, as well as operational and claims excellence, which will be resolute [in] achieving our goals and providing commitment to our clients.”