Unoccupied property: the clause only the insurer remembers
Short answer
Many policies limit or exclude cover once the home is left unoccupied for a period set in the terms — typically for theft and for damage from water installations.
Why an empty home is a different risk
A leak in an occupied flat is noticed within an hour; in an empty one, after weeks, once it has already reached two floors down. Theft is also easier and stays unnoticed longer. Hence a separate regime in the terms — not because anyone is looking for a reason to refuse.
What is usually required
Notification if the home will stand empty longer than the stated period; sometimes shutting off water and power on leaving; sometimes periodic checks by someone with access. These requirements are concrete and verifiable — which is exactly why they are easy to meet.
A holiday property is its own case
A villa or flat used a few weeks a year falls into this category by definition. Cover for those is written to account for it — otherwise the policy looks valid all year but works only in August.
Frequently asked questions
- How long counts as "unoccupied"?
- The period is in the terms and differs between companies. It is one of the few numbers genuinely worth checking before signing.
- What if I am abroad for two months?
- If the period is exceeded, notify the insurer in advance. A written notice is cheap; the later dispute is not.
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