Insurance for unoccupied properties
Unoccupied homes need a different approach to insurance. We arrange cover that reflects the property, the reason it is empty and how long it is likely to stay that way.
At Lumley, we specialise in arranging insurance for homes that need a more considered approach. If a property is going to be left empty for an extended period, that means understanding why it is unoccupied, how long it is likely to remain that way and what arrangements will be in place while no one is living there.
Many standard home insurance policies limit cover once a property has been unoccupied for a set period of time. We can arrange cover that reflects the circumstances, so you know your property is properly insured while it is empty.
When your property is left unoccupied
There are all sorts of reasons why a home might be left empty for a period of time. You may be waiting for a sale to complete, dealing with a property in probate, planning renovations or simply spending more time elsewhere.
Whatever the reason, an empty home needs a little more consideration when it comes to insurance. Problems such as an escape of water can go unnoticed for longer, while an unoccupied property may also be more vulnerable to theft or attempted break-ins.
Understandably, insurers will want to know a little more about how the property will be looked after while no one is living there.
How we can help
Talk to us as early as you can and we’ll take the time to understand your plans, how long the property is likely to be empty and what arrangements you already have in place.
We can then speak directly with insurers and make sure the cover reflects your circumstances. If regular visits or particular precautions around heating, water or security are needed, we’ll make sure you know exactly what’s expected.
If renovation or building work is the reason the property is unoccupied, we can look at that with you too. Where needed, we can arrange specialist renovation insurance covering both the existing property and the works taking place.
Here when you need to make a claim
It’s when you need to make a claim that your insurance really matters. Because we already understand your cover, your property and how it’s insured, we can focus straight away on helping you through what happens next.
Our dedicated Claims team will manage the detail and stay closely involved throughout, with a personal point of contact so you always know who you’re speaking to. And through our long-standing relationships with insurers, loss adjusters and specialist advisers, we can work closely with everyone involved to help keep your claim moving in the right direction.
FAQs
Unoccupied properties pose extra complications – here are some of the questions we are frequently asked around insurance them.
How long can my home be empty before I need unoccupied property insurance?
This depends on your existing policy, as insurers have different definitions and conditions around unoccupancy. If you know your home is going to be empty for an extended period, speak to us as early as possible. We can check your existing cover and let you know if anything needs to change.
Can you insure an unoccupied property that is being sold?
Yes. If a property is empty while you’re waiting for a sale to complete, we can arrange insurance that reflects the period of unoccupancy and any requirements the insurer may have while the property is empty.
Can you arrange insurance for an unoccupied property in probate?
Yes. Properties can remain empty for some time while an estate is being dealt with. We can talk through the circumstances and arrange appropriate cover while the property is unoccupied.
Can I insure an empty property while it is being renovated?
Yes, although the right insurance will depend on the extent of the work. For more significant renovations or building work, specialist renovation insurance may be needed to cover both the existing property and the works taking place. It’s always worth speaking to us before work begins.
Find out more about renovation insurance ->
What do I need to do while my property is unoccupied?
Your insurer may ask you to take certain precautions, such as inspecting the property regularly or following requirements around heating, water and security. These vary between insurers and properties, so we’ll explain any conditions that apply to your cover clearly.
Can you insure a second home that is empty for part of the year?
Yes. If you have a second home that is regularly left empty, we can look at how you use the property and arrange insurance that takes those periods of unoccupancy into account.
