Leaving a property empty for a period of time happens more often than you might think.

A bereavement. A house move. Renovation work. An extended holiday.

Whatever the reason, most people assume their standard home insurance will cover them while they are away.

It will not.

Why Standard Home Insurance Is Not Enough

Most standard home insurance policies include a vacancy clause.

This means that if your property is left unoccupied for more than 30 to 60 days (the exact period depends on your insurer) your cover can be reduced or cancelled altogether.

That is not a small print technicality.

It means that if something goes wrong while the property is empty, your claim could be rejected.

What Can Go Wrong in an Empty Property?

An unoccupied property carries more risk than one that is lived in.

There is no one there to spot problems early.

Common issues include:

  • Burst pipes or water damage going unnoticed for days or weeks
  • Break-ins and vandalism
  • Fly-tipping or squatters
  • Electrical faults leading to fire
  • Storm or weather damage left undetected

The longer a property sits empty, the greater the risk. And the more expensive the damage can become.

What Is Unoccupied Home Insurance?

Unoccupied home insurance is a specialist policy designed to protect a property that is not being lived in.

It fills the gap that your standard policy leaves behind.

Cover typically includes:

  • Fire and flood damage
  • Malicious damage and vandalism
  • Theft and break-ins
  • Liability cover in case someone is injured on the property
  • Escape of water

Policies can usually be arranged for a set period, whether that is a few months or longer, depending on your circumstances.

Who Needs Unoccupied Home Insurance?

You may need specialist cover if:

  • You are in the process of buying or selling and the property is sitting empty
  • You have inherited a property that has not yet been sold or transferred
  • You are carrying out renovation work and the property is not habitable
  • You are working abroad or travelling for an extended period
  • A tenant has moved out and you are between lets

If any of these apply to you, it is worth checking your current policy wording carefully.

Assuming you are covered when you are not is a costly mistake.

How Long Do You Need It For?

Unoccupied home insurance can be arranged on a short-term basis.

You do not need to commit to a full annual policy if the property will only be empty for a few months.

A specialist broker can help you find the right level of cover for the right period of time, without paying for more than you need.

Need Cover for an Empty Property?

If your property is sitting empty and you are unsure whether you are properly covered, do not leave it to chance.

At Alternative Insurance Brokers, we specialise in unoccupied home insurance for all types of situations.

Call 0161 388 2520 for a free, no-obligation quote and advice.