Insuring an empty or unoccupied property
Most home and landlord policies reduce cover once a property has been empty for 30 to 60 days. Unoccupied property insurance is written for empty homes, flats and commercial units, for example between tenants, during probate or before renovation.
Regular inspections
You will usually need to check the property inside and out regularly and keep a record.
Water and heating
Insurers may ask you to drain the water system or keep heating on in winter.
Secure the building
Locks, closed post boxes and removing rubbish reduce risk.
Cover levels
You may choose from basic fire cover up to wider cover.
- How long it will be empty
- Rebuild cost
- Security and location
- Level of cover chosen
- Why and how long it will be empty
- Rebuild cost
- Planned works
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More guides: Landlord insurance: what do you need? · Rent guarantee insurance explained · Commercial property insurance guide
General guidance only. Cover depends on policy terms, conditions and exclusions.