Can You Insure an Empty House? What Coverage Is Required

Insuring an empty home presents unique challenges, as standard homeowner’s insurance policies typically exclude coverage if a home is left without residents for a specified duration, often 30 to 60 days. This necessitates specialized coverage, as risks for empty dwellings are significantly higher.

Understanding Empty Property Risks

An empty property poses a higher risk to insurers. Without residents, issues like water leaks or electrical problems can escalate, leading to extensive damage.

Empty homes are also susceptible to vandalism, theft, and squatting, as the absence of activity signals a lack of oversight. This can cause property damage and legal complications.

Insurers distinguish between “vacant” and “unoccupied” properties. A property is “vacant” when completely empty of people and personal belongings, often with utilities disconnected (e.g., homes for sale, undergoing renovation). An “unoccupied” property contains furniture and connected utilities, implying a temporary absence (e.g., vacation homes). Vacant properties are higher risk due to the complete lack of oversight.

Types of Empty Property Insurance

Specialized policies address these risks. “Vacant home insurance” is for homes completely devoid of furnishings. It covers perils like fire, lightning, windstorm, hail, explosions, vandalism, and water intrusion. This policy protects the physical structure, often on an actual cash value basis, though replacement cost coverage may be available.

“Unoccupied home insurance” is for properties temporarily without residents but still containing furniture and connected utilities. It offers protection against similar perils as vacant policies, including fire, theft, and water damage. Insurers consider unoccupied homes less risky than vacant ones.

Other specialized coverages include a dwelling fire policy (for fire and named perils) and “builder’s risk insurance” (for properties under construction). Common exclusions across empty property policies include wear and tear, intentional damage, or damage from unapproved renovations.

Information Required for Coverage

Homeowners must provide detailed information to assess risk and determine appropriate coverage and premiums.

The reason for the property’s empty status (e.g., recent move, inheritance, for sale, renovation) helps the insurer understand the context and potential duration.
The expected duration of the empty period is a significant factor. Insurers typically have thresholds (e.g., 30 or 60 days) after which standard policies cease coverage. Accurate estimates allow for tailored policy terms.
Details about security measures, including active alarm systems, motion-sensor lighting, deadbolts, and window security. Properties with robust security may qualify for lower premiums.
Plans for regular property checks and maintenance by a trusted individual.
The property’s current condition, including age, structural integrity, plumbing, and electrical systems. Well-maintained properties are lower risk.
The property’s location, including proximity to fire services and crime rate.

Obtaining and Managing Your Policy

Securing empty property insurance begins with gathering information about the home’s status, condition, and planned empty period. Contact your current homeowner’s insurer first, as they may offer an endorsement or transition to a specialized policy. If not, seek specialized carriers or independent agents.

The application process involves submitting these details for underwriting and premium determination. Empty property insurance is typically more expensive than standard homeowner’s insurance, often costing 25% to 60% more. Promptly notify the insurer of any changes to the property’s status, such as re-occupancy or extended empty periods.

Maintain the security measures and property conditions disclosed during the application. Ensure alarm systems remain active, entry points are secured, and required regular inspections are conducted. Adhering to policy requirements, such as shutting off the main water supply in colder months, helps ensure smooth claims processing.