Why Choose Us?
Finding competitive unoccupied property insurance can often be a challenge as many home insurance companies will not even consider this type of cover. At Watkin Davies, our skilled team of insurance advisors know exactly where to look to find the best cover available on the market. Not only will we find you a competitive deal, we will talk you through the provisions in plain English, so you understand exactly what is expected of you.
What is Unoccupied Property Insurance?
Unoccupied home insurance covers you when your home is empty for longer than your standard policy will allow. You only normally get cover if your home is empty for up to 60 days – and if anything happens outside this period you won’t be covered.
When your home is empty for an extended period, the chances of theft go up. An unoccupied home also carries a higher risk of structural damage – for example, if a pipe bursts and there’s no-one there to handle repairs, the effects could be even more damaging.
An important factor to bear in mind is a consequence of The Occupiers Liability Act 1957, which makes the owner of a vacant property legally liable for any death or injury to visitors or trespassers on the property. Owners owe a duty of care to ensure vacant premises are well secured and prevent access to children. This ensures the absolute necessity for liability insurance.
What do we cover?
- Storm, flood or fire damage: If any natural disaster happens while you’re away
- Escape of water or oil: If a pipe bursts or there’s a leakage somewhere in the house
- Theft and/or attempted theft: If someone successfully breaks in or attempts to break into your home and steals your belongings
- Vandalism: If criminal damage occurs in your absence
- Legal expenses: If you need to pay legal fees for the removal of squatters, for trespassers or for personal identity theft
- Public liability insurance: If damage is caused by a property that you are responsible for; for example, if a roof tile falls and breaks a car window
