With more homeowners renovating or flipping houses, and properties spending longer periods empty during sales or building works, knowing how to insure an unoccupied property has never been more important. Standard building insurance won’t always protect you when your property is vacant for more than 30 to 60 days, so here’s a practical, step-by-step guide to make sure you’re covered and avoid common pitfalls.
Step 1: Recognise When Your Property Is “Unoccupied”
Insurers typically define a property as “unoccupied” if it’s left empty for more than 30 consecutive days, although some policies use a 60-day threshold. This includes homes awaiting sale, under renovation, or between tenants. Remember, a property can be considered unoccupied even if it’s furnished. What matters is regular occupancy, not just the presence of furniture.
Step 2: Notify Your Current Insurer Immediately
As soon as a property becomes unoccupied, contact your current provider. Failing to inform them can void your policy, meaning any claim for theft, fire, water damage, or vandalism after the time limit could be rejected. Some insurers provide limited cover (such as for fire or lightning) for a short period after a property is left empty, but for longer periods, you’ll need specialist unoccupied property insurance.
Step 3: Find Specialist Unoccupied Property Insurance
You can absolutely insure a vacant property. Many UK insurers offer unoccupied property policies, with options for 3, 6, or 12 months, flexible for renovations or sales. Look for cover that protects against:
- Fire, lightning, earthquake, explosion
- Theft or vandalism
- Escape of water (such as burst pipes)
- Storm or flood damage
- Third-party liability (for accidents involving visitors or tradespeople)
Policies vary, so clarify what’s included and whether there are any notable exclusions, such as unfixed contents or malicious damage.
Step 4: Understand What Insurers Will Require
Insurers will likely ask for:
- The length of time the property will be unoccupied and the reason (e.g., for sale, refurbishment)
- Details about the property’s security (locks, alarms, CCTV, etc.)
- Confirmation that water and utilities will be either safely turned off, or heating left on in winter to prevent frozen pipes
- Arrangements for regular inspections (often weekly or every 30 days)
- Clear access for inspections and emergency repairs
Step 5: Prepare Your Property
Before the policy takes effect, most insurers will expect you to:
- Secure all doors and windows and activate security systems
- Remove valuables and clear out post or waste, to avoid attracting vandals
- Turn off utilities at the mains unless heating or alarms are required to remain on
- Make arrangements for regular property checks by yourself or a trusted contact
Step 6: Keep Records and Stay Compliant
Many rejected claims result from failing to follow policy terms. Ensure you:
- Keep a log of all property inspections and checks, including dates and any issues found
- Retain receipts for any repairs or maintenance carried out
- Update your insurer if your circumstances change (e.g., renovations start, property becomes occupied, or if it will be vacant for longer than first expected)
Checklist: What Insurers Need from You
Here’s a quick summary of what most insurers will expect:
- Notification as soon as the property is empty
- Details of vacant period, renovation, or sale plans
- Confirmation of comprehensive security measures
- Regular inspection schedule (and proof)
- Maintenance of the property in good condition
Common Mistakes When Insuring a Vacant Property
Avoid these pitfalls:
- Not telling your insurer about the vacancy: this is the most common cause of claim denial
- Assuming your standard home insurance still applies after 30 days
- Failing to maintain security or turn off water as required by the policy
- Missing mandatory inspections or forgetting to log them
- Not updating your insurer if occupancy status changes (such as renovations running over time or tenants moving in early)
Final Thoughts
It’s absolutely possible to insure an unoccupied or vacant property, whether it’s in-between tenancies or being renovated, but you’ll need to be proactive and organised. With specialist cover and careful planning, you can protect your investment and ensure claims are paid if the worst happens.
If you need quotes or help arranging the right insurance for your empty property, get in touch with the QuoteSearcher team by completing our quote form. We’re always ready to assist!