Empty Homes in the UK are on the Rise
According to the most recent government figures, there are nearly 700,000 empty homes in England, with 261,471 of those being classed as long-term empty – being unoccupied for six months or longer.
These figures only continue to grow, with areas such as London and Blackpool seeing increases in the number of empty homes within their boroughs.
As of October 2022, the UK government reports that there are 676,304 homes classed as empty for council tax purposes across the UK, with over 248,149 of them remaining unoccupied for more than six months, as per the latest government data (2022).
Whether these properties are idle due to owners awaiting sale, serving as second homes or holiday homes, or undergoing probate, the challenge of insuring them remains significant.
Insurance for unoccupied houses and properties ensures you’re fully covered should anything happen when you’re not there, whether that’s fires, property damage, or extreme weather.
To assist in safeguarding your unoccupied home, we’ve created some useful advice and insights into unoccupied house property insurance.
What Does Insurance For Unoccupied Houses Cover? What protections does insuring an unoccupied home offer?
Unoccupied house insurance covers several potential scenarios that could happen to your home when unoccupied:
- Cover against natural disasters such as floods and storms*
- Protection against fires*
- Cover for burst pipes*
- Cover against vandalism and theft*
At Brunel Insurance for People, we can tailor our policies to ensure that not only is the structure of your property covered, but your contents are fully protected as well. Plus, we offer property owners liability insurance to protect you against legal liabilities that may arise if any injuries or damage occur on your property.
*Cover on Unoccupied Property Insurance varies from policy to policy
Do I Need Unoccupied Property Insurance?
If you’re planning to leave your home for thirty days or more, you may need unoccupied home insurance. Your standard home insurance policy may not cover your property if it has been empty for a specific amount of time, such as thirty or sixty days – always check with your current insurance provider.
If anything happens to your property when it’s not insured correctly, you’ll have to pay out of pocket to cover the damages.
Your standard home insurance might provide adequate coverage, or you might necessitate specific unoccupied property insurance. You should always check with your current insurance provider.
Does Insurance For Unoccupied Houses Cost More Than Regular Home Insurance?
Unoccupied house insurance can be slightly more expensive than regular home insurance for a few reasons. An unoccupied home often attracts unwanted attention from vandals and squatters, elevating the property’s risk profile to insurers compared to an occupied residence.
Plus, the presence of occupants significantly mitigates risks, as they can promptly address incidents and deter vandals. At Brunel Insurance for People, we aim to get you the best price possible for your unoccupied property insurance, taking into consideration factors such as property value, crime rates, and security features that can help bring the cost down.
Consequently, unoccupied property insurance frequently commands higher premiums.
What Is Short-Term Unoccupied House Insurance?
Often you will not require a full 12 months of insurance for your empty property; therefore, we have policies with various durations ranging from 3 months to 12 months.
However, we can tailor insurance for unoccupied houses depending on your exact needs, so you’re covered for the exact length of time and for the exact requirements you need.
Other Ways to Protect an Unoccupied Home
Alongside unoccupied house insurance, there are several additional things you can do to protect your property.
For example, if you’re going to be away Some insurers mandate the maintenance of heating if the property remains unoccupied, especially in the winter and colder months. Automate your heating to turn on once or twice a day to prevent your water pipes from freezing and bursting.
Additionally, let your neighbours know if your home or second property will be empty for a long time so they can keep an eye on it for you. If anything should happen, be sure to leave your contact details with them so they can reach out. Inform your neighbours of the property’s emptiness to keep an eye on the property and inform you should anything happen to your property between visits.
Additionally, keeping curtains and blinds open deters potential intruders during daylight hours. For an extra level of protection, consider investing in a security system, which can also bring your insurance premiums down.
Unoccupied House Insurance With Brunel Insurance
Looking for insurance for unoccupied houses? Brunel Insurance for People is the place for you. With comprehensive cover for every eventuality, our unoccupied house insurance provides you the ultimate peace of mind for when you’re away from home.
Request a quote for unoccupied house insurance today, or get in touch with us on 01934 643400. Should you want more information on Unoccupied Property insurance, please call us on 01934 643400
