Why does vacancy change the insurance picture?
At first, leaving a rental empty doesn’t seem like a big deal. Maybe tenants have just left, you’re in the middle of renovations, or you’re waiting to re-let. But to insurers, an unoccupied property is a very different risk. With nobody living there, small problems can go unnoticed and spiral. A slow leak may turn into a flood. An empty home can also attract vandals or burglars. That’s why most landlord policies limit or even remove cover after 30 to 60 days of vacancy. To stay protected, landlords often need specialist unoccupied property insurance.
What is unoccupied property insurance?
This type of policy is built specifically for properties left vacant for more than a few weeks. It recognises that empty homes face higher risks and adjusts cover accordingly. Standard landlord insurance assumes tenants are in place. Unoccupied cover is designed for the silence in between. It gives landlords financial protection while waiting for new tenants, carrying out renovations, or preparing a property for sale.
What does this cover usually include?
Most comprehensive unoccupied property policies provide:
- Buildings cover: Fire, flood, storm, and subsidence protection for the structure itself.
- Contents cover: Limited protection for items left inside, such as carpets, white goods, or furniture.
- Public liability: If someone is injured on-site while it’s vacant; for example, a contractor.
- Vandalism and theft: Protection against break-ins, malicious damage, or stolen fixtures.
- Escape of water: Cover for burst pipes or leaks, if heating or drainage conditions are followed.
- Legal expenses: Sometimes included to cover disputes linked to the vacant period.
In short, it bridges the gap when a property isn’t actively let but still needs protection.
What exclusions are common?
Because risk is higher, insurers set stricter terms. Exclusions often include:
- Damp, mould, or gradual deterioration.
- Damage if inspection or maintenance rules aren’t followed.
- Losses caused by squatters unless specifically included.
- Escape of water if the heating wasn’t drained or left on frost protection in winter.
- Cover lapsing if the property is left vacant longer than the policy period without renewal.
The message is clear: insurers expect landlords to take sensible steps to maintain and secure the property, even when it’s empty.
How long is cover needed?
It depends. Some landlords only need it for a few weeks between tenants. Others require months of cover during long refurbishments. Policies are usually flexible, from 30 days up to a year, with extensions possible if needed. What matters most is being upfront. Hiding a vacancy may leave you uninsured altogether.
What risks do empty homes face?
Vacant properties are exposed to:
- Water damage: Burst pipes or unnoticed leaks.
- Vandalism: Graffiti, smashed windows, or deliberate damage.
- Theft: Copper piping, appliances, or fixtures taken.
- Fire: Arson is more likely in visibly empty buildings.
- Deterioration: Roof or gutter problems that worsen without anyone reporting them.
These risks make unoccupied cover more than just a tick-box; it’s practical protection.
Why do insurers add extra conditions?
To balance risk, insurers usually expect landlords to:
- Inspect the property every 7–14 days.
- Drain water systems or keep heating on low in winter.
- Keep doors and windows fully secured.
- Clear post and keep the house looking lived-in to deter crime.
Meeting these conditions protects the property and ensures any claims remain valid. Many landlords arrange for agents to carry out inspections if they can’t visit themselves.
What if the property is being renovated?
Renovations complicate things further. Standard unoccupied policies may not cover major works, especially if they involve structural changes. In those cases, specialist renovation insurance may be required. This type of policy accounts for risks like damage during works, contractor liability, and theft of building materials. It’s worth discussing with your insurer before work begins.
How does this cover affect peace of mind?
Vacant properties often cause landlords worry; especially if they live far away. With unoccupied insurance, much of that anxiety eases. If something goes wrong, financial and professional support is available. That reassurance lets landlords focus on getting the property ready for its next chapter rather than imagining worst-case scenarios.
Who benefits most from unoccupied insurance?
It’s particularly valuable for:
- High-value properties where losses would be severe.
- Landlords who live far away and can’t inspect regularly.
- Properties under long renovation projects.
- Inherited homes awaiting sale or re-letting.
In these situations, the risks of going without proper cover are too high.
Is the extra cost worth it?
It can be tempting to skip cover if the gap seems short. But one burst pipe or break-in could cost far more than the premium. For most landlords, the peace of mind and financial security are worth it. The real question is how much risk you’re willing to shoulder yourself.
Final thoughts: protecting property during empty periods
Empty spells are part of being a landlord. Tenants move out, refurbishments take time, and the market shifts. But in those periods, the risks change. Standard landlord insurance often won’t stretch far enough once a property is vacant. Unoccupied property insurance fills that gap, keeping your investment secure until it’s ready for its next stage. For most landlords, it’s not just another add-on; it’s an essential safeguard.