Mortgage protection usually means life insurance intended to help repay an outstanding mortgage if you die during the policy term. Decreasing-term cover is often designed for repayment mortgages because the insured amount can reduce broadly in line with the expected loan balance, while level-term cover may be considered for interest-only borrowing or other needs. It is not generally a legal requirement, but your lender or circumstances may affect what cover is appropriate, and life insurance does not usually cover critical illness unless that benefit is added. Compare the policy terms carefully and consider speaking to an FCA-authorised adviser about your needs and affordability.