Empty property insurance advice for thatched and listed homes

Unoccupied properties can be more vulnerable to theft, squatters, and unnoticed damage from leaks, storms, or fires. Without regular occupancy, issues like burst pipes, escape of water or electrical faults may go undetected, leading to extensive and expensive damage. Empty properties are also often seen as easy targets by burglars or vandals.

Unoccupied property insurance covers homes or commercial properties left unoccupied for extended periods. Standard home insurance or business insurance policies often have clauses that limit or void coverage if a property is vacant for a specific duration, typically 30 to 60 days. Empty Property Insurance ensures that property owners are protected against the risks associated with unoccupied buildings.

What does Empty Property Insurance cover?

Empty property insurance typically offers protection against the following:

• Theft and Vandalism – Cover for damage caused by break-ins or malicious acts.
• Fire and Water Damage – Protection against incidents that could devastate the property if left unchecked.

Do you need Empty Property Insurance?

This type of insurance is essential for homeowners or landlords in situations such as:

• Property renovations that make the home temporarily uninhabitable.
• Homes left vacant during probate or while awaiting sale.
• Landlords with a gap between tenancies.
• Owners of second homes or holiday homes not regularly occupied.

Policy Requirements and Maintenance

Insurers often ask for specific conditions for empty property insurance to remain valid. These may include:

• Regular property inspections to check for damage or signs of entry.
• Maintaining utilities at a minimum level, such as heating during winter to prevent pipes from freezing.
• Installing security measures like alarms, locks, or CCTV to reduce risks.

What is the difference between Empty Property Insurance and Home Insurance?

Home insurance protects occupied properties and typically includes coverage for buildings and contents under the assumption that the home is regularly lived in. Standard policies often have restrictions or exclusions if a property is left unoccupied for an extended period, usually beyond 30-60 days.

Empty Property Insurance specifically covers properties that are vacant for prolonged periods. This can include renovations, between tenancies, or while awaiting sale. It addresses the increased risks associated with unoccupied properties, such as vandalism, theft, and unnoticed damage from leaks or fire. Whatever the reason for your property remaining empty, we can provide the correct levels of cover to ensure your property remains financially protected.

Your questions answered

Whether you have a second property, a holiday home or provide Airbnb accommodation we are switched on to your insurance queries. Here are several questions our customers ask in relation to Empty Property Insurance.

How often am I supposed to check my second property?

Whilst most insurers have been flexible since Covid-19, we still recommend you give us a call. We can run through a checklist with you to ensure your property is secure and that locks and intruder alarms are in place. If you, or a neighbour, are able to check the property it is also worth contacting us so that we can update our records.

What do I do about the heating and water supply during winter?

Some insurers will ask that the water supply is drained if your home is empty, whereas other policies state that the heating system should be kept ticking over during the winter period (November – March) to avoid frozen pipes. Talk to us, and we’ll check your policy and advise which steps should be taken for your particular property.

I let my second property out for Airbnb. Do you provide insurance cover for this?

We are pleased to say that we do provide home insurance for some Airbnb properties when the property is your primary residence (second homes and holiday homes have different policies, so please check with us).

My second home is undergoing renovations. Do I need to tell my insurance broker?

If you are rebuilding or renovating your second home, talk to us about arranging appropriate insurance. Some homeowners are inclined to rely on their building contractor’s insurance policy but this can lead to disastrous consequences. If for example your contractor’s policy is not up to date, it could result in their insurance being null and void. This could affect you should you need to make a claim.

Can I defer my insurance payments?

To help our clients we are offering differing payment options which includes spreading the premium into monthly payments. If you are struggling with payments then please contact us and we will be able to run through specific options with you.

I need to make a claim on my home insurance. Will it be a lengthy process?

You have a direct line to a dedicated adviser, so no ‘hold music’ to endure either! Our claims team always strives to provide a professional and swift service.

Do I need to pay council tax on a second home or unoccupied property?

You will usually have to pay council tax on a second home but you may be eligible for a discount in some instances.

Empty Property Insurance provides invaluable peace of mind. It ensures that you are not left financially vulnerable if the worst happens. Moreover, it demonstrates responsible property ownership, which can be particularly important for landlords or executors managing estates.

If you own a second home that is left unoccupied for part of the year, or wish to discuss insurance for a holiday home, get in touch.