Whether you’re between tenants, mid-renovation, or dealing with probate, an empty property can quickly become a liability. Many property owners assume their standard home insurance will cover the building while it’s unoccupied, but in reality, most policies stop offering full protection after just 30 days.
That’s where unoccupied property insurance comes in. It’s specifically designed to protect empty homes and commercial spaces from risks like theft, vandalism, escape of water, and more, when no one’s there to catch the damage early.
With the right cover in place, you can protect your investment and avoid unexpected repair bills. In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about insuring an unoccupied property, from what’s covered to how to apply.
Can You Insure an Unoccupied House?
Let’s start with the basics. Yes, you absolutely can (and should) insure an unoccupied house. But it’s not as simple as leaving your usual policy to cover everything. Standard policies typically offer limited cover (usually just 30–60 consecutive days) once a property is empty. After that, you could be out of pocket if anything happens.
Unoccupied property insurance (sometimes called empty property insurance) is purpose-built for homes and buildings that are left empty for longer periods. It’s not legally required, but if you value your property (and your wallet), it’s essential.
Differences Between Occupied and Unoccupied Property Insurance
Standard home insurance assumes someone is present to prevent damage and report issues. But with no one home, risks multiply: leaks go undetected, burglars seek opportunities, and minor problems can turn into major repair bills.
That’s why most insurers either restrict or exclude cover entirely for unoccupied properties. Specialist policies address these elevated risks, offering peace of mind when you can’t be there.
Common Misconceptions About Insuring Vacant Homes
- “Standard Home Insurance Covers Vacant Property.”
Not for long. Most policies cap vacant coverage at 30–60 days. After that, you may lose cover entirely for theft, escape of water, and more. - “Vacant Home Insurance Isn’t Necessary.”
It’s not legally required, but try explaining that to your bank balance if a pipe bursts while the property’s empty. - “Insuring a Vacant Home Costs the Same.”
It doesn’t. Insurers view unoccupied properties as higher risk, which can affect both cost and availability.
What Coverage Do You Need for an Unoccupied Home or Commercial Property?
For unoccupied property insurance that gives you complete protection, it should include:
- Fire, lightning, and explosion
- Theft and attempted theft
- Malicious damage
- Escape of water or oil
- Subsidence, heave, and landslip
- Storm and flood damage
- Riot and impact
It’s not just about buildings, contents cover is available too, for any items left inside.
Public Liability and Other Essential Coverages
Public liability cover is one of the most important parts of unoccupied property insurance. It protects you if someone is injured on your property or if the property causes damage to someone else’s belongings, an essential safeguard, especially when no one is around to notice or prevent accidents.
Every vacant property owner should think about more than just bricks and plaster. At Policy Powerhouse, our unoccupied property policies can include:
- Public liability up to £5 million – for third-party injury or damage
- Accidental damage – for those “how did that even happen?” moments
- Contents cover – if you’ve left anything behind
- Personal Cyber and ID Fraud cover – because even empty properties can be targeted
Optional add-ons include legal expenses cover and flexible policy terms (3, 6, or 12 months).
Can You Insure an Unoccupied Commercial Property for Public Liability?
Yes. If your shop, office, or commercial building is temporarily vacant, you can still be held liable for accidents on-site. Our empty commercial property insurance offers tailored public liability protection to keep your business assets safe, even when the lights are off.
How Long Is an Unoccupied House Insured For?
Most unoccupied building policies allow 3, 6, or 12-month terms depending on how long your property is likely to be empty. Whether it’s a short renovation or a long wait for probate, we’ve got a policy to fit.
Extending Coverage for Long-Term Vacancy
If your plans have changed, that’s not a problem. You can extend your cover if your property stays unoccupied longer than expected.
What You Need for Unoccupied Property Insurance
Documentation and Information Required
Getting started is straightforward. You’ll need:
- Full address and property type (house, flat, commercial, etc.)
- Size, layout, materials, and year built
- Reason for vacancy (e.g., renovation, between tenants, awaiting sale)
- Expected duration of vacancy
- Security features – like locks, alarms, or CCTV
- Maintenance arrangements – e.g., garden upkeep, post collection
- Claims history
- Sum insured – for buildings and contents
How Property Condition Affects Your Policy
A well-kept property is a less risky one. Secure locks, tidy exteriors, and active maintenance can reduce premiums and make sure claims are valid. Some insurers may even require you to shut off utilities or heat the property in winter.
Steps to Apply for Unoccupied Property Insurance
- Gather your property details and documents
- Speak to one of our advisors for a tailored quote
- Choose a cover duration (3, 6 or 12 months)
- Complete the application, online or with help
- You’re covered!
We keep the process efficient and jargon-free, just how insurance should be.
Managing Risks and Protecting Your Vacant Property
Common Causes of Claims on Unoccupied Properties
Common causes of claims on unoccupied properties include escape of water from frozen or burst pipes, theft or vandalism, fire damage, storm or flood-related incidents, and accidents involving third parties. Without regular monitoring, these issues can go unnoticed and lead to significant repair costs.
Preventative Measures to Reduce Risk
To reduce the risk of damage or theft while your property is unoccupied, it’s important to take proactive steps to keep it secure and well-maintained. Install a visible alarm or CCTV system, use timer switches to give the appearance of occupancy, carry out regular inspections, and ensure the garden and exterior are kept tidy. In colder months, either turn off the water supply or keep the heating on at a low setting to prevent frozen pipes. These simple measures can make a big difference in protecting your vacant property.
Policy Powerhouse Tips for Vacant Property Owners
- Don’t guess – always check your insurer’s definition of “unoccupied”
- Log all property inspections and take photos
- Be honest about the reason and duration of vacancy
- Notify us if your situation changes
Why Choose Policy Powerhouse for Your Unoccupied Property Insurance?
Customised Insurance Solutions for Vacant Homes and Commercial Spaces
No two properties are the same. That’s why our cover isn’t one-size-fits-all. Whether you need 3 months of protection for a probate property or insurance for shop owners, we build your cover around your needs.
Expertise in Commercial and Residential Unoccupied Property Insurance
With over 30 years in the industry, we’ve seen it all. From quirky cottages to half-renovated townhouses, we understand how to protect the unique and non-standard.
How to Get Started with Policy Powerhouse
Want a quote? It takes minutes. Visit our page on unoccupied property insurance or give us a call. Our team’s ready to help, and we’ll never sell you cover you don’t need.
FAQs
What coverage do I need for an unoccupied commercial property?
You’ll likely need buildings insurance, public liability cover, and protection against theft or vandalism. Our empty commercial property insurance includes all that and more.
How long can an unoccupied house be insured?
Typically, 3, 6, or 12 months.
What do I need to provide to get unoccupied property insurance?
Details about the property, reason for vacancy, security measures, and how long it’ll be empty. We’ll guide you through it.
