Unoccupied Insurance Quote

What Is Unoccupied Home Insurance and Why Do You Need It?

Unoccupied home insurance is a specialised type of home insurance designed to cover homes that are left empty for extended periods. It’s essential because a standard home insurance policy may not provide cover if your home is unoccupied for more than 30-60 days.

As a sports professional, you may often be away from home due to matches, training or events. Unoccupied home insurance gives you peace of mind, knowing your property is protected during these periods.

What Types of Unoccupied Home Can I Insure?

We can provide coverage for a broad array of unoccupied homes, from city apartments and country houses to holiday homes and flats. Regardless of your property type, we have the expertise to offer the right unoccupied home insurance for you.

What Type of Unoccupied Home Insurance Do I Need?

The type of unoccupied insurance you need will depend on how long your property will be unoccupied and the level of coverage you want. Ranging from basic cover to a more comprehensive policy that includes things like accidental damage, we can guide you towards the most suitable policy for your situation.

What Can Affect the Unoccupied Home Insurance Price?

Insurance premiums for unoccupied building insurance can vary significantly based on several key factors. Here’s what typically influences the cost:

• Property Size & Location: Larger buildings or those located in high-crime or flood-prone areas are likely to face higher premiums. This is due to increased exposure to risks such as break-ins, vandalism, arson, or water damage — especially when the property is not regularly monitored.
• Property Features & Condition: Buildings with valuable fixtures, older infrastructure, or in poor condition may incur higher premiums. Similarly, properties left vacant long-term or awaiting renovation face greater risks (e.g., structural issues, burst pipes, or unauthorised access).
• Claims History: A history of previous claims — including fire, theft, or escape of water — can increase your premium. In contrast, a clean claims record may help reduce costs.
• Type & Level of Cover: The more comprehensive your policy (e.g., covering malicious damage, fire, escape of water, and property owner liability), the higher the premium. However, these options offer stronger protection, which is especially important for vacant buildings that may go unnoticed for extended periods.

Optional Upgrades and Add-Ons

Many insurers offer optional extras to enhance your unoccupied building insurance policy, including:

• Enhanced Property & Fixtures Cover: from £65 – £300
  Extends protection for your property’s structure, fixtures, and any items left inside while unoccupied. This cover helps safeguard against accidental damage or unforeseen risks during periods when the property is empty.
• Vandalism, Squatter, or Trespasser Protection: from £50 – £100
  Provides financial protection against damage caused by vandalism or unauthorised entry. This cover also helps with the costs and legal processes involved in removing squatters or trespassers, giving you peace of mind while the property is vacant.

How can I get cheaper unoccupied home insurance?

Unoccupied properties carry higher risks, but by implementing the right precautions, you can reduce your insurance premiums while protecting your investment:

1. Strengthen Property Security: Install robust security measures like CCTV, motion-sensor lighting, strong door/window locks, and alarm systems. Consider using monitored security services or smart alarms with remote access. These upgrades can help deter break-ins, vandalism, and squatting — potentially lowering your premium by 10–15%.
2. Put a Risk Management Plan in Place: Empty buildings with active risk management are considered less of a liability. This may reduce your premium by 5–15%. Demonstrate to insurers that the property is being responsibly managed even while empty by:
   1. Conducting regular property inspections (weekly or biweekly)
   2. Keeping logs of maintenance checks (roof, plumbing, electrics)
   3. Ensuring all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functional
   4. Clearly outlining procedures for fire, flood, or unauthorised access
3. Maintain Safety Systems: Regularly test smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and ensure fire extinguishers are present and serviced. Some insurers may offer 5–10% discounts for proactive safety maintenance — even in vacant properties.
4. Increase Your Voluntary Excess: Opting for a higher excess (e.g., £1,000 instead of £500) means you’ll cover more of any future claim, which can reduce your premium by 5–20%.
5. Bundle Your Policies: If you own multiple properties (vacant or otherwise), bundling your unoccupied building insurance with landlord, property owner liability, or legal cover can result in discounted rates. Potential savings: 10–15% overall.

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