Unoccupied Property Insurance
If you own a property, there may be times when it stands empty for several consecutive days, which could invalidate or severely restrict the coverage on your home insurance or landlord's insurance.
In cases like this, you may typically need unoccupied property insurance (also known as empty property cover or unoccupied house insurance) rather than standard home insurance.
This will ensure that your home is still protected against unexpected events that cause loss or damage, such as floods, fire, theft, etc as insurers see this as a greater risk of leaving your property vacant.
As a specialist insurance broker, we’re able to secure cover for even the most unusual homes. And we do so at a great rate where other companies would struggle to even provide a quote.
What does unoccupied home insurance cover?
This varies from policy to policy, with some policies being very restricted and offering just Fire cover. However, we also provide comprehensive policies, which can include Escape of Water, Theft, Vandalism, and Malicious Damage.
What is the difference between unoccupied property, empty property, and vacant property?
While you may hear these different terms for an empty property, there is no difference. They are all the same.
When is a property classed as empty?
It is important to note that a property can be classed as empty, even if it is furnished.
There are various circumstances in which a property can become unoccupied or empty, and you need unoccupied property insurance, such as:
- You go on an extended holiday or business trip, and your home is left empty;
- You are a landlord with a let property that is experiencing a void;
- The property is undergoing significant renovation, alteration, or extension;
- You have a probate policy that is empty while the paperwork gets sorted;
- Where you have moved to a new home, but your old house is still awaiting sale.
Many people get a shock when they find out their insurance becomes invalid due to their property standing empty.
Unoccupied insurance policy
The majority of property insurers are happy to cover an unoccupied property for a short period (typically up to 30-45 consecutive days depending on the insurer) with no alteration to the policy.
As part of your insurance contract with your provider, however, you may find you are obliged to heat the property and/or have regular, logged checks made by an authorized person in your absence. This log of checks may be requested if you make a claim.
Once this period has been exceeded, insurers often dramatically reduce coverage or withdraw it altogether. There are a few insurers that will continue with full cover, but again these are subject to terms and conditions.
That is why empty property cover exists and why, if you have a vacant property, you may wish to consider a specialist unoccupied insurance policy.
We can help you access the most cost-effective and appropriate cover for your needs, providing home insurance for the unoccupied property as well as landlord insurance for property that is awaiting an occupant.
Do I need to take an annual policy on an empty property?
No, at UK Sure Services Ltd we understand that the need for flexible empty house insurance is essential. So, we have many policies that offer different policy terms, including 3 months, 6 months, and 9 months.
We also offer various monthly direct debit options, too, for your convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What counts as unoccupied for home insurance?
As insurance companies consider a property to be unoccupied if it's empty for more than 30 days, the level of cover included in empty property insurance usually changes at this cut-off point, with further changes the longer a home is left vacant.
Question: How long can my home stay empty?
Typically, are no specific regulations on how long you can leave your home unoccupied. However, it's important to know that most standard home policies will only provide coverage for an empty property for a duration of 30 to 60 days.
Question: Is insuring an unoccupied property more costly?
Yes, unoccupied property insurance tends to pricier than standard home because insurers consider vacant homes to be a higher risk. The likelihood of break-ins or squatters is greater, and there are additional concerns regarding building maintenance.
Question: What does it mean for a home to be unoccupied?
In other words, vacancy can be described as being “mostly devoid of belongings essential for regular living.” The term unoccupied indicates that the property remains in a condition where all items and possessions are still present, as if the owners might return at any moment.
Question: Is home insurance applicable if the house is unoccupied?
Standard home insurance typically provides coverage for a home that is unoccupied for a maximum of 30 or 60 days, depending on the policy terms. If an incident occurs beyond this timeframe, coverage not apply. This limitation exists due to the increased risk of theft when a property remains empty for an extended duration.
Question: Is it permissible to insure a house that you do not own?
You can buy home insurance for someone else, but the policy must include the legal homeowner's information, even if you are the one paying the premiums. Landlords need to protect the structure of their property with building insurance, while tenants are responsible for insuring their personal belongings.
Question: Is it against the law to not insure a house?
While there is no legal obligation for to have buildings insurance, it's important to understand that if you have a mortgage, your lender may require you to obtain buildings insurance as a condition of the loan.
Question: Is unoccupied home insurance beneficial?
Unoccupied insurance is valuable if you intend to leave your property vacant for a prolonged period. It may come at a higher cost compared to standard home insurance. It can protect your property from damage, be mindful of the exclusions that may apply.
Question: Does home insurance cover the garden?
Most standard home insurance policies provide limited coverage for your garden and its belongings at no additional charge. However, whether you've recently purchased your first pair of gardening gloves or take pride in your outdoor space throughout the year, many of us tend to underestimate the worth of gardens.
Question: Is a kitchen included in buildings or contents insurance?
Building insurance protects against the costs of repairing or rebuilding your home's structure. This coverage extends to windows, walls, roofs, outbuildings, as well fitted kitchens and bathrooms. It safeguards against damages from events such as, storms, and floods.
Do you have a question about unoccupied private property insurance? Submit your question here
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