Unoccupied Property Insurance

Do I need unoccupied property insurance?

Reasons for an empty or vacant property include:

• A newly purchased property is awaiting first tenants.
• A rental property is in-between tenants.
• A property that is up for sale or awaiting probate.
• Student accommodation between term times.
• Empty holiday home lets in off-season periods.
• Refurbishing, renovating, redecorating, or extending a property.
• Commercial property is awaiting new business occupiers.

Homeowners may also require unoccupied property insurance if their property is:

• Empty due to an extended holiday.
• Undergoing repair or development.
• Vacant because the homeowner is in the hospital or receiving long-term care.

What does unoccupied property insurance cover?

Unoccupied property insurance can cover buildings, contents, and liabilities.

Typically, it is the buildings which are covered –  including the rebuild cost (this is often compulsory where mortgage lenders are concerned). Unoccupied property insurance may provide cover for the permanent fixtures and fittings of a building, such as walls, drives, patios, conservatories, gates,  fences etc.

We can also arrange contents insurance for you at an extra cost, covering items like carpets, furniture, white goods, decorations, etc.

Property owners’ liability insurance is also available. This cover can protect against any alleged claims of injury to third parties. For example, if a loose roof tile fell and hit a member of the public, you would have protection in place.

Speak to us about the level of cover you need, and we’ll put together a suitable insurance quotation for you.

How much does empty property insurance cost?

The cost of insuring unoccupied property varies, and depends on various factors, including (but not limited to):

• The level of cover needed for buildings, contents and liabilities
• Property location
• Property size
• Type of property
• Claims history
• Security measures

Costs will vary considerably. However, if you have more than one property, you may find it cheaper to cover them on one policy rather than individually.

Security measures for your unoccupied property

You should secure your unoccupied property to ensure your insurance policy is valid.

To protect your unoccupied property against damage or theft, it is best practice to:

• Turn off any gas, water and electricity services at the mains (unless you’re using power for alarm systems).
• Activate alarm systems for fire and theft, including any smart surveillance cameras, etc.
• Activate all locks on doors, windows and accessible outbuildings.
• Ensure the temperature in the property always remains above 10°C (to avoid freezing water pipes).
• Regularly inspect the property – at least once a week – to remove letters and packages. You should also note any visible issues before they get worse (e.g. damage to roof tiles).
• Ask neighbours or trusted people to act as a back-up in noting any issues that occur.