Introduction to Unoccupied Properties

Unoccupied properties require special insurance coverage, known as unoccupied property insurance, to protect against risks such as fire, theft, and vandalism. When looking overall at home insurance unoccupied property insurance cover is a specialised form of over. 

Unoccupied house insurance differs from standard home insurance policies, which typically exclude vacant properties or any long period of unoccupancy. 

Understanding the differences between unoccupied house insurance and standard home insurance cover is crucial for property owners. Get it wrong and your policy may be invalid, and your claim not paid. 

Unoccupied properties can include empty homes, holiday homes, and properties left unoccupied due to extended holidays or renovations or pending sale, typical examples of when homes are left empty but you still need to insure them.

Why Use Emerald For Your Unoccupied Insurance

We are here to help!

Emerald has been insuring unoccupied properties for many years. It is one of our specialties, and have a knowledgeable staff. We aim to be clear and understanding of all circumstances. We rate highly on review websites for our work and our staff are trained in the issues around unoccupied insurance. 

We cannot advise on whether you need unoccupied insurance but we can explain the cover, its terms, and its exclusions. You can see our background page on freehold insurance HERE. For our process, please call us on 0330 113 7109 or email us on customerservice@emeraldlife.co.uk and we would love to hear from you. 

Types of Unoccupied Properties

Unoccupied properties can be categorized into different types, including vacant properties, empty properties, properties between tenants and properties left unoccupied for a long period. It can cover a main home, second home or holiday home. 

Each type of unoccupied property requires the correct insurance cover to address specific risks and potential damage.

Unoccupied home insurance can cover a range of properties, including empty houses, holiday homes, and properties undergoing renovation. With any property that is not occupied insurance will cost a little more money, because of the increased risks.

Insurers offer various insurance options for unoccupied properties, including buildings insurance and contents cover.

Insurance Options for Unoccupied Properties

Unoccupied property insurance provides cover for properties left empty for an extended period, typically more than 30 days. Emerald can also provide home insurance cover that allows for up to 180 days unoccupancy for extended travel as well – call us on 0330 113 7109 if this is what you are looking for. 

Specialist cover is available for unoccupied homes, including empty property insurance and vacant property insurance.

Home insurance experts recommend notifying your home insurer if your property will be left unoccupied to ensure cover remains valid. If you do not do this they may cancel your cover. 

Unoccupied property insurance can be tailored to address specific risks, such as malicious damage, theft, and flood.

Empty Property Considerations

Empty properties are more vulnerable to risks such as fire, vandalism, and theft, making it essential to secure your home and invest in unoccupied buildings insurance.

Property owners should consider the potential damage and costs associated with leaving a property unoccupied and take steps to mitigate these risks through the right buildings insurance. 

Unoccupied properties require regular checks to ensure they remain secure and to prevent potential damage. Usually no less than twice a month. 

Homeowners should review their insurance policy to ensure it includes cover for unoccupied if needed and provides adequate protection.

Insurance Cover for Unoccupied Homes

Unoccupied home insurance allows customers to take a type of buildings insurance that will cover properties, offering peace of mind for property owners.

Insurance cover for unoccupied homes can include protection against risks such as escape of water, vandalism, and theft.

Insurance policies for unoccupied properties can be flexible, with options for short-term or long-term cover.

Insurers may offer discounts for properties with enhanced security features, such as alarms and secure doors and windows.

Factors Affecting Unoccupied Home Insurance Costs

The cost of unoccupied unoccupied buildings insurance can vary depending on factors such as the property’s value, location, and security features.

  • Properties in high-risk areas, such as flood-prone zones, may incur higher insurance costs.
  • The length of time a property is left unoccupied can also impact insurance costs, with longer periods typically resulting in higher premiums.
  • Homeowners can compare insurance quotes and policies to find the best cover for their unoccupied property.

Specialised Empty Home Insurance

Specialist insurers offer tailored unoccupied home insurance policies to address the unique needs of property owners.

These policies can provide cover for properties left unoccupied due to renovations, extended holidays, or other circumstances.

Unoccupied property insurance can include additional features, such as cover for malicious damage, fire and theft.

Homeowners should consult with insurance experts to determine the best insurance option for their unoccupied property. Often their current home insurer will not be best option for keeping their home secure if they want to insure. 

Checking on Unoccupied Properties

Regular checks on properties left empty are essential to prevent potential damage and ensure the property remains secure. Without those checks you may no longer find your cover valid. 

Property owners can hire a representative to perform checks if they are unable to do so themselves.

Insurers may require regular checks to be performed to maintain cover and ensure the property is adequately secured.

Homeowners should keep records of checks and maintenance to provide evidence of their efforts to secure the property.

Unoccupied Home Insurance for Different Situations

Unoccupied home insurance can be tailored to address and protect specific situations, such as properties left unoccupied or vacant for sale, renovation, or extended holidays – for any main home, holiday home or second home. 

Homeowners should consider their individual circumstances and choose an insurance policy that provides adequate cover for the money. 

Insurers offer a range of policies to suit different needs, including short-term and long-term cover.

Property owners should review their insurance policy regularly to ensure it remains relevant and provides sufficient protection.

Emerald is here to help!

As we said above Emerald is here to assist. Call us on 0330 113 7109 or email us on customerservice@emeraldlife.co.uk and we would love to hear from you.