A mortgage protection policy is a type of life insurance designed to help repay the outstanding mortgage if the insured borrower dies during the policy term. The benefit is normally paid to the mortgage lender, rather than directly to the borrower’s family, and the cover usually reduces as the mortgage balance falls. Irish mortgage lenders will generally require suitable mortgage protection, although exceptions and policy terms can vary. Check the cover, exclusions and medical requirements with the lender or an authorised insurance provider, and confirm the current rules through Citizens Information or the Central Bank of Ireland.