Unoccupied property
insurance
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A new way to insure an unoccupied property
Unoccupied property insurance is cover for your property when it is left empty for longer than your regular home policy will allow. Typically, a standard home insurance policy only covers up to 30-60 days depending on your terms.
In partnership with some of the leading UK insurers, we’ll not only get you a better unoccupied property insurance deal with the best cover available, we work hard to keep you as a customer year after year.
We compare the market for the best deal so you don’t have to.
24/7 claims service
We’re here for you round the clock when you need us most.
Fairer prices for all
We only provide cover for responsible unoccupied property owners, so you’ll get a better deal.
World-class support
You’ll get your own UK-based human to look after you for the duration of your policy.
We use a combination of technology and a wealth of experience to give you unrivalled cover and more affordable unoccupied property insurance prices.
With over 50 years of experience providing top-quality insurance for your unoccupied property, you can be sure we’ve got you covered.
What does unoccupied property insurance cover?
Damage to your property
We’ll cover the cost of repairing
your property.
Bad weather can happen
Storm, flood and fire damage in case a natural disaster or similar happens.
If your things get stolen or damaged
We’ll help cover the cost of criminal damage or replacing your belongings.
Legal expenses
Cover for costs if you need to start legal proceedings, for
example, to remove trespassers or squatters.
Property public liability insurance
Cover for damages caused by something from your property, like a roof tile or tree falling on a neighbour’s property.
* Subject to your chosen level of policy cover and the prevailing policy excess.
What is unoccupied property insurance?
Unoccupied property insurance provides cover for your property when it remains empty for a period longer than your standard home insurance policy permits. Typically, a regular home insurance policy covers up to 30-60 days, depending on the terms.
Unoccupied property insurance generally costs more than standard home insurance due to the increased risks associated with a vacant property. With no one living in the home, there’s a higher likelihood of incidents such as break-ins or even squatting.
They’re also more susceptible to undetected maintenance issues. For instance, a water leak might go unnoticed for weeks, causing far more extensive damage than it would in an occupied property. Insurers factor in these heightened risks, which is why premiums for unoccupied property insurance tend to be higher.
Who needs unoccupied property insurance?
If you intend to leave your property unoccupied for more than 30 days, it’s essential to consider an unoccupied home insurance policy. This type of insurance is necessary for various situations, including:
- Home renovations that require you to vacate the property temporarily.
- Being a landlord between tenants.
- Leaving a property empty while it’s on the market for sale.
- Waiting for the completion of probate after the death of a loved one.
- Owning a second home or holiday home that’s not your primary residence.
- Taking an extended holiday or sabbatical.
- A long-term illness that requires extended treatment away from home.
Without unoccupied property insurance, you may face significant risks, as most standard home insurance policies won’t cover a property once it has been vacant for more than 30-60 days.
How much does unoccupied property insurance cost?
The cost of empty property insurance is influenced by several factors. Typically, it is more expensive than regular home insurance due to the increased associated risk of the property being unoccupied.
Level of cover
The more additional options you select and the higher the level of coverage you choose, the more you’ll pay in premiums.
Value of the property
Properties with a higher value are generally more costly to repair and rebuild, so you’ll need to pay more to insure them.
Property location
If your property is located in an area with high crime rates or a greater risk of flooding, the cost of cover will increase.
Property security
Enhancing your home’s security features while it’s unoccupied can help prevent burglaries and may lower the cost of cover.
Property maintenance
Maintaining your property to prevent potential damage can reduce the likelihood of claims and may lower premiums.
Your claims history
A history of claims can be viewed as a higher risk, which can increase premiums. However, a clean history could reduce cost.
Unoccupied property insurance frequently asked questions
Can I cover multiple properties?
Whether you’re an owner-occupier with a single property or an investor with a portfolio of properties, we can arrange comprehensive cover under a single policy.
How long can a property be unoccupied?
Standard home insurance policies typically cover properties for up to 30 days of unoccupancy, though this can vary. Some policies may extend this cover to 60 days. Unoccupied property insurance, on the other hand, offers greater flexibility. It allows you to tailor the cover based on the expected duration of your absence. For example, the time it takes for a home renovation or to sell a property.
Do I need to tell my home insurance provider it is becoming unoccupied?
Failing to inform your insurance provider that your property will be unoccupied for longer than the period specified in your policy can result in the invalidation of your coverage. This means that if you need to file a claim during this time, your insurer may refuse to pay out. Always check the terms of your policy and notify your insurer if the property will be vacant for an extended period.
Can I get cover for loss of rent?
Absolutely. We can include rent guarantee cover or tenant default cover as an optional extra.
What is accidental damage cover?
A standard policy will cover against the main perils (storm, flood etc.). Accidental damage cover extends this to cover spillages, breakages or damage caused by you, a tenant or a visitor.
Can you provide unoccupied commercial property insurance?
Yes, unoccupied commercial properties can be considered for cover. To discuss the best option for your needs and to find a solution that fits your requirements, please give us a call on 0345 222 6318.
Do you pay council tax on unoccupied property?
Whether occupied or not, almost every residential property is subject to council tax. However, unoccupied properties may qualify for certain exemptions or discounts, depending on their circumstances.
Find out more information in our blog Do you pay council tax on unoccupied property?
Can I trust you?
We’ve been around for over 50 years with a dedicated liability insurance team. We’re also authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
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