What Is Unoccupied House Insurance and Do I Need It?

Unoccupied home insurance is specialist cover designed for properties left empty for extended periods of time. Unlike standard home insurance policies, it accounts for the increased risk that comes with an empty property: from burst pipes and vandalism to squatters and malicious damage.

Why can’t I just use regular home insurance for my empty house?

Here’s the thing: most standard home insurance policies have strict limits on how long your home can be unoccupied. These typically range from 30 to 90 days, and for good reason.

An empty house faces unique risks:

• Escape of water from burst pipes (no one’s there to spot the problem early)
• Vandalism and malicious damage
• Burglar break-ins (criminals often target vacant properties)
• Squatters moving in
• Storm damage going unnoticed
• Fire risks from faulty electrics

Insurance providers consider these increased risks when setting their unoccupancy limits. Once you exceed these timeframes, your level of cover may be void entirely.

When do I need unoccupied property insurance?

You might need unoccupied home insurance in several scenarios:

Property inheritance and probate

When inheriting a property during probate, it often sits empty for months whilst legal matters are sorted. Standard home insurance policies won’t provide adequate cover during these longer periods.

Renovations and refurbishment

Major renovations can mean moving out for weeks or months. Your empty home needs protection whilst builders are in and out.

Extended travel or work abroad

Whether it’s a round-the-world adventure or a lengthy work assignment, being away for long periods requires specialist insurance cover.

Property sales and lettings

The gap between tenants or whilst marketing a property for sale can leave you with a vacant property needing cover.

How does Lemonade handle unoccupied homes?

Right, let’s be upfront: Lemonade doesn’t offer standalone unoccupied house insurance. However, we do provide cover for existing contents and home insurance customers who need to be away from their primary residence for short periods.

Buildings and contents policy cover

Scenario	What’s covered
Away for up to 60 days	Full property damage cover continues
Away 61-90 days	No property damage cover, but contents away from home covered with appropriate add-ons
Away 91+ days	No cover available, policy must be cancelled

Contents-only policy cover

Scenario	What’s covered
Away for up to 90 days	Contents and liability covered (with appropriate add-ons for contents away from home)
Away 91+ days	No cover available, policy must be cancelled

It’s important to note that we only cover your main home, not holiday homes or second homes. You’ll need to maintain your home properly whilst away to maintain cover, including:

• Keeping internal temperature above 15°C
• Ensuring proper pipe insulation
• Turning off the stopcock if away for more than 5 days
• Arranging regular property checks

What does unoccupied home insurance typically cover?

Specialist insurance for vacant properties usually includes:

Buildings insurance cover	Contents insurance cover	Additional protections
Storm damage and weather-related perils	Theft by unforced entry	Public liability cover
Fire and explosion damage	Fire damage to belongings	Legal expenses for squatter removal
Escape of water and burst pipes	Vandalism to contents	Alternative accommodation costs
Vandalism and malicious damage	Valuables protection (often with limits)	Home security system requirements
Damage from squatters

What are the common exclusions?

Unoccupied home insurance policies typically exclude:

• Damage from squatters after a certain period
• Vandalism by certain parties
• Gradual deterioration or maintenance issues
• Some types of water damage
• Theft of fixtures and fittings

Always check the exclusions section carefully, they vary significantly between insurance providers.

How much does unoccupied property insurance cost?

Insurance premiums for vacant properties are typically higher than standard policies due to increased risk. Costs depend on the length of unoccupancy, your property’s location and type, security measures in place, previous claims history, and your required level of cover.

Most insurance providers require enhanced home security measures such as regular property inspections, upgraded locks and alarms, boarding up accessible windows, and maintaining the property’s appearance. These requirements can add to your overall costs but are essential for maintaining cover on your vacant property.

When should I get a home insurance quote for vacant property?

Don’t leave it until the last minute. Contact an insurance expert or quote online as soon as you know your property will be empty. Many providers need advance notice, and some have waiting periods.

For landlord insurance or rental property situations, you might need different specialist cover altogether.

What if my situation doesn’t fit standard policies?

Some scenarios require bespoke solutions. Holiday homes need specific second home insurance, whilst properties undergoing major renovations face unique challenges that standard policies can’t address. Homes in probate with uncertain timescales present particular difficulties, as do trading name or commercial property situations where the boundaries between residential and business use become blurred.

In these cases, specialist underwriting may be required to assess your unique circumstances and create tailored cover that addresses your specific risks and requirements.

Are there alternatives to unoccupied house insurance?

Depending on your situation, you might consider:

Short-term arrangements

If you’re only away for a short period, check if your current insurance provider offers temporary extensions.

Property guardians

Some homeowners use property guardian services to avoid the empty property classification altogether.

Regular occupancy

Having someone stay occasionally might help, though this depends on your insurer’s definition of occupancy.

How do I choose the right unoccupied home insurance?

When comparing unoccupied property insurance options:

• Check maximum unoccupancy periods allowed
• Compare buildings insurance and contents cover limits
• Review security measures requirements
• Understand exclusions thoroughly
• Consider legal expenses cover
• Verify claims processes and support

The Financial Conduct Authority regulates insurance providers in England, Scotland, and Wales so ensure your chosen provider is properly authorised.

The bottom line

Whether you’re planning extended travel, dealing with probate, or facing major renovations, understanding your insurance cover options is crucial before your home sits empty. Whilst Lemonade doesn’t offer standalone unoccupied house insurance, we do provide flexible cover for existing customers away for up to 60-90 days.

If you’re currently living in your primary residence and want peace of mind for future travels or life changes, getting your home insurance sorted now means you’re already protected when plans change. Check out how Lemonade can protect your primary residence. 

FAQs about unoccupied house insurance