Secure Your Property: Unoccupied Home Insurance UK Tips

Leaving a house empty for a long time can bring some risks. Whether you have a vacant property because of an extended holiday, a rental gap, or inheritance, it’s key to know how unoccupied property insurance works. It is different from standard home insurance policies. This guide will help you learn about the levels of cover you get, what is included in an unoccupied home insurance policy, and how to keep your property safe while it sits vacant.

What Is Unoccupied Property Insurance?

How Is Unoccupied Property Insurance Different from Standard Home Insurance?

A standard home insurance policy is meant for homes that people live in regularly. If a home is empty for a long time, it becomes a greater risk. This is due to problems like theft, vandalism, escape of water, and squatters. Many insurers will limit or cancel coverage if a home stays unoccupied for over 30 to 60 days. This rule depends on the policy terms.

Unoccupied property insurance covers homes that are empty for a longer period. This type of insurance protects against different risks that can happen when no one is living there to care for the property or keep out intruders.

When Do You Need Unoccupied Home Insurance?

You might need an unoccupied home insurance policy if:

• You are selling your home but have already moved out.
• You are a landlord with a vacant property between tenants.
• You have inherited a house and are waiting for probate to finish.
• You are doing major renovations, so the property has to be empty.
• You are taking an extended holiday or will be away for several months.
• You own a holiday home that is vacant for long periods.

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What Does Unoccupied Home Insurance Cover?

Levels of Cover in Unoccupied Home Insurance Policies

Different policies provide levels of cover that vary. However, most of them include:

• Building insurance – Helps repair the home if it gets damaged by fire, floods, or ground movement.
• Escape of water – Covers damage from burst pipes or leaks, but some policies will not include this if the home is unheated.
• Theft and vandalism – Protects you from break-ins and dirty damage. Some policies may need proof of unforced entry.
• Squatter protection – A few policies offer legal help to remove squattersfrom a vacant property.
• Third-party liability – Covers legal costs if someone gets hurt on your property.
• Home emergency cover – Provides help for urgent issues like burst pipes or broken locks.
• Accidental damage cover – Some policies may include this to cover unexpected problems inside the property.

What Is Not Covered in Unoccupied Property Insurance?

Policies vary, but exclusions may include:

• Normal wear and tear and upkeep problems.
• Malicious damage done by the property owner or others close to them.
• Theft that happens without signs of unforced entry.
• Water damage if the heating was not taken care of in winter.
• Damage from pests or other infestations that come from being empty for a long time.

How Long Can a Property Be Unoccupied Before It Needs Special Insurance?

Most home insurance policies protect homes that are unoccupied for up to 30 to 60 days. After this length of time, insurers may not cover some risks. This means that homeowners may need to get unoccupied home insurance.

If a home is empty for a long time, you need to review the policy documents. It’s also important to talk to the insurer about the type of empty house insurance you need.

How to Protect an Unoccupied Property

Even with unoccupied home insurance cover, you can take steps to make your property safer. Doing this can help lower your rates and avoid claims. Think about these tips:

1. Install Security Measures

• Install security cameras and an alarm system to stop intruders.
• Make sure to use high-quality locks on doors and windows.
• Set up motion sensor lights to help prevent theft and vandalism.
• Think about adding monitored alarms that tell authorities if someone breaks in.

2. Maintain the Property

• Keep the heating on a low setting to stop pipes from freezing.
• Schedule regular cleaning to make the home feel lived in.
• Clean the gutters and take care of the garden.
• Take out any valuables to lower the chance of theft.

3. Check the Home Regularly

• You can ask a trusted third party, like a neighbour or a relative, to check on the property.
• Think about hiring a property management service to do regular inspections.
• Make sure that mail and deliveries do not build up, as this may suggest that the home is empty.

4. Inform Your Insurance Provider

• Always tell your insurer if your property will be empty for a extended period.
• Make sure the policy termsfit your needs.
• Check any policy updates to make sure you still have coverage.

What Are the Costs of Unoccupied Home Insurance?

The cost of unoccupied property insuranceis affected by several things, including:

• How long the home will be empty.
• The type of cover needed (basic or comprehensive).
• Where the property is located and the crime rates nearby.
• The security features installed (like alarms, CCTV, etc.).
• Past claims history – A past of insurance claims on the property can impact costs.
• Property type – Different homes, like flats, detached houses, or listed buildings, might have different insurance prices.

Premiums are usually higher than standard home insurancebecause empty properties come with more risk. But, if you take steps to protect your property, you can lower your costs.

Correct as of 25 February 2025

FAQs About Unoccupied Property Insurance