Probate Home Insurance 

Dealing with the passing of a loved one brings about immense emotional strain and upheaval. Amidst the whirlwind of legal procedures and the management of wills, insurance concerns often take a backseat. However, ensuring adequate protection for the deceased’s property during probate is crucial. Probate, the process wherein the executor gains legal authority over the estate, demands careful attention, particularly regarding property insurance.

Navigating probate can be complex and time-consuming, often leaving properties vacant for extended periods. During this time, it falls upon the executors to safeguard the property and its contents.

Why is Specialist Empty House Insurance Necessary During Probate?

Once a property remains unoccupied for over 30 days, standard home insurance policies may lapse or offer limited coverage, typically restricted to risks like Fire, Lightning, Earthquake, and Explosion (FLEE cover).

Leaving property unattended heightens the risk of damage and losses due to various factors:

  • Unnoticed issues such as storm damage or pipe leaks can escalate, leading to substantial repair costs.
  • Properties become targets for theft, vandalism, and squatting.

To mitigate these risks, consider the following precautions:

  • Regularly visit the property, adhering to the policy’s visitation requirements.
  • Prevent mail buildup by removing post from the doormat.
  • Create the appearance of occupancy by adjusting curtains, utilizing timers for lights, and maintaining the garden.
  • Maintain a minimum temperature of 15°C or appropriately secure the water system.
  • Enlist the help of a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on the property.
  • Ensure all security measures, including locks and alarms, are functional.
  • Consider installing a cost-effective CCTV system linked to your smartphone.

Investing in probate home insurance is advisable, given that the probate process typically spans 3 to 9 months. This specialized insurance accounts for these unique circumstances.

Initiating Contact with the Current Insurance Provider Inform the property’s existing insurance company promptly upon the homeowner’s demise, providing necessary documentation such as the death certificate. While some insurers may extend coverage until the policy’s expiration, others may provide a brief grace period or cancel the policy outright.

At Brunel Insurance for People, we streamline the process of securing specialist probate home insurance. We aim to alleviate the burden of insurance procurement during this challenging period. We aim to offer competitive premiums and strive to provide quotes promptly, offering you peace of mind when you need it most.