Empty properties face unique risks like theft, vandalism, and water damage, but standard home insurance often won’t cover them. In this article, Ben Moore from QuoteSearcher talks with Phil Gowing from GSI Insurance about everything property owners need to know about unoccupied property insurance.
You can also watch the full discussion in the video podcast here.
What is Unoccupied Property Insurance?
Unoccupied property insurance is a specialist type of coverage for homes and commercial properties that aren’t regularly lived in. Phil from GSI explains:
- A property is typically considered unoccupied if it hasn’t been lived in overnight for 30 days.
- An unfurnished property is considered unoccupied from day one, even if it’s only empty for a few hours.
- This insurance covers risks that standard home insurance usually doesn’t, providing protection against theft, vandalism, escape of water, and squatters.
“It’s not just you “popped out for lunch”. If your property is empty for a while, you need specialist cover.” – Phil Gowing, GSI Insurance
Why You Need It?
Empty properties are high-risk for:
- Escape of water: Leaks can go unnoticed, causing severe damage over time.
- Vandalism and malicious damage: Unoccupied properties can be targets for criminals.
- Squatters: More common in commercial properties, though residential squatting is now a criminal offence.
- Theft: Particularly valuable items like copper pipes, lead, or high-end fixtures.
Typical Properties That Require Coverage
Some common scenarios include:
- Residential homes between tenants
- Properties in probate
- Properties awaiting sale
- Homes undergoing renovation
- Commercial properties temporarily empty
How It Differs from Standard Home Insurance
Unoccupied insurance provides coverage that standard home policies often don’t:
- Standard insurance may be invalid after 30 days of vacancy.
- Some policies may offer limited fire-only cover.
- Unoccupied policies are modular and consider risk mitigation measures like regular property visits, heating, or draining water systems.
- Provides coverage for high-risk events such as theft, malicious damage, and escape of water.
“A standard home policy won’t cover unoccupied risks, you need a specialist product.” – Phil Gowing, GSI Insurance
Tips to Reduce Premiums
Insurance premiums for empty properties can be higher due to the increased risk, but there are ways to reduce costs:
- Regular property visits: Visit every 7–30 days to check for issues.
- Water management: Drain pipes and turn off the water supply, or maintain minimum heating to prevent frozen pipes.
- Security improvements: Install alarms, CCTV, deadbolts, and secure windows.
- Risk mitigation during renovations: Inform your broker and plan ahead to avoid coverage gaps.
Premiums can vary by 150% depending on risk mitigation efforts. Simple actions can significantly reduce costs.
Claims Process
In case of damage, here’s what to expect:
- Contact your broker if unsure whether the damage is covered.
- Report emergencies like fire to the authorities immediately.
- Insurers are experienced with claims like escape of water, theft, and vandalism.
- Coverage is similar to standard home insurance, though some limits may apply for certain risks (e.g., £2,500 for water or theft claims if coverage is restricted).
“Call your broker first, they’re there to guide you through the process and prevent unnecessary stress.” – Phil Gowing, GSI Insurance
Emerging Trends in Unoccupied Insurance
Insurance is evolving with technology:
- Smart sensors for water leaks, especially in larger, high-value homes
- DIY alarms and video doorbells to lower premiums
- More modular policies, allowing flexibility in coverage and pricing
Key Takeaways for Property Owners
- Don’t assume your standard policy covers an empty property.
- Engage a specialist broker early. Coverage can often be arranged in minutes if planned in advance.
- Mitigate risks wherever possible to protect your property and reduce premiums.
- Plan ahead for renovations or any period your home may be vacant.
“If your property is going to be empty, get on it. Don’t wait until it’s too late.” – Phil Gowing
Get a Quotes for Your Unoccupied Property
Protecting your empty property has never been easier. Click here to compare quotes from specialist providers and find the right cover for your situation.
