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What is unoccupied property insurance?

When a property you own is unoccupied, there can be a higher level of risk. Even a minor problem can escalate into something more serious while the premises are unattended. This may lead to much higher repair bills.

There are many reasons why a property can be unoccupied. A gap between tenancies or a refurbishment project, for example. Probate or a delay in selling the property can also leave the premises vacant. A standard home insurance or landlord insurance policy may provide insufficient cover in these circumstances.

Unoccupied property insurance can cover risks such as theft, vandalism, and malicious damage when your property is unoccupied. It can also include cover when fires, storms, water, and snow cause damage to your vacant property.

What does unoccupied property insurance cover?

Our specialist team can help you tailor your unoccupied property insurance policy to your requirements. This can include:

  • Buildings insurance - to cover repairs or rebuilding costs if your property is damaged.
  • Contents insurance - for damage to possessions and furniture within the property.
  • Property owners' liability insurance - for protection against third-party claims.

Policy limits and exclusions may apply, please see the policy wording for full terms and conditions.

What types of property can be covered by unoccupied property insurance?

A range of property types can be eligible for unoccupied property insurance with Discount Insurance. 

Terraced and end terrace houses Semi-detached
Detached houses Bungalows
Maisonettes Flats
HMOs Shared accommodation
Student accommodation  

Discount Insurance's unoccupied property cover benefits

The following policy benefits can be included with your cover:

      • Contents cover for replacing possessions owned by the property owner following damage caused by an insured peril.
      • Property owner’s liability of up to £5,000,000 to cover you for costs or damage that may be awarded to a member of the public should they suffer an injury on your property.
      • Cover for the cost of replacing locks and keys after a break-in or burglary.
      • Cover for properties owned under a company name.

Policy limits and exclusions may apply, please see the policy wording for full terms and conditions.

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*Correct as at September 2024.

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Unoccupied Property Insurance FAQs

Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions about unoccupied property insurance.

Please note that these Frequently Asked Questions are not a substitute for the policy wording.

For full terms and conditions please see the policy documentation.

No, unoccupied property insurance is not required by law. While the premises are unchecked, damage can go unnoticed, becoming more severe, and making repair or replacement more expensive.

This is dependent on the reason why the property is empty and what the intentions are to make the risk habitable in the future. Contact our specialist team on 0800 294 4522 if you are unsure.

Many standard home insurance policies stipulate that the property must not be left unattended for a stated period. Policies vary, but this period is often anything more than 30 days. Therefore, you risk having cover which is restricted or potentially uninsured.

Call us on 0800 294 4522
Visit Contact Us for opening hours