Unoccupied Property Insurance

in Norwich, Norfolk and Ipswich, Suffolk

Unoccupied Property or Home Insurance

What is unoccupied property insurance?

Unoccupied property insurance is a separate policy that covers you when you leave your home for longer than 30 days. Your normal cover will usually only ensure you are covered for between 30-60 days, so it is vital to ensure that you are fully protected.

Leaving your home unoccupied for a longer period is seen as a greater risk for reasons such as burglary, leaks, and damage. If there is no one there to notice these issues, the damage can become bigger and worse by the time you have gotten back.

Unoccupied home or property insurance can be a minefield, but we are confident that by working with a select number of insurers - we can help.

Why and when would you require unoccupied home or property insurance?

Here are some examples of times that you may require this insurance policy, but not strictly limited to:

  • Extended holidays or business trips away
  • Renovation, extension, or building work
  • Probate or Inheritance
  • Hospital or care
  • Awaiting completion of a property sale
  • Investment / Rental
  • Empty Property awaiting Funding for Development


There are many a reason why you should need unoccupied property insurance, even when you least expect it. We may ask a lot of questions, but we believe that by doing so and asking the right questions you will be given the very best quotation for your circumstances - and more importantly, you will be insured! Get in contact with our team today for further information regarding your new policy.

Why Drayton?

When our company was established in 1997 by Susan Howard and Darren Walsgrove, the goal was always to provide our customers with the best experience that is both easy to access and never comprise on the cover. 25 years later and this is still what we stand by.

Our team is both friendly and professional, and their job is to ensure that the best policy is found for you and your requirements.

We work with all the main UK insurers, so we can offer expert advice to ensure your business is well protected. For the peace of mind that you have the right business insurance cover, please give us a call on 01603 652888, send us an email, or pop in and see us. We are based within Norfolk, Suffolk, and across East Anglia with four offices and mobile representatives. or pop in and see us.


What is unoccupied property insurance?

Unoccupied property insurance is a type of insurance that covers properties that are not being lived in or used for business purposes. It can help to protect you from financial losses if your property is damaged or suffers a loss while it is unoccupied.

What do you need for unoccupied property insurance?

To get unoccupied property insurance, you will need to provide us with information about your property, such as its location, value, construction, age and any security measures you have in place. It is also likely that insurers will want to know why the property is unoccupied and what your immediate and future plans are for it.

What types of properties are typically covered under unoccupied property insurance?

  • Residential Private Dwellings: This includes homes that are temporarily uninhabited, whether due to relocation, renovation, or seasonal travel. Unoccupied property insurance helps safeguard your investment against unforeseen events.
  • Residential Let Premises: If you own rental properties that are currently vacant, unoccupied property insurance ensures that you are covered until new tenants move in.
  • Holiday and Second Homes: Vacant holiday and second homes often face unique risks. Unoccupied property insurance offers protection during the times these properties are not in use.
  • Commercial Premises: Business owners can benefit from unoccupied property insurance for their commercial buildings that are temporarily vacant, protecting against potential liabilities.
  • Industrial Premises: Factories or warehouses that are unoccupied can also be covered, ensuring that any equipment or materials are protected from loss or damage.

Choosing unoccupied property insurance tailored to your specific property type is crucial for adequate protection. By securing the right coverage, you can defend against potential risks and maintain the integrity of your vacant properties.

For comprehensive and reliable unoccupied property insurance solutions, contact us today to learn more about your options.

What does unoccupied property insurance typically cover?

We can provide policies that provide basic cover (for Fire, Lightning, Explosion and Aircraft Damage) to policies that cover full perils, including accidental damage and subsidence (and anything in between). It is always best to speak with us about your specific requirements so that we can offer a policy that best suits your needs.

Can I get unoccupied property insurance for both residential and commercial properties?

Absolutely, you can obtain unoccupied property insurance for both residential and commercial properties. This specialised insurance is designed to protect vacant premises from various risks such as vandalism, theft, and unforeseen damages. However, it’s important to note that the specific coverages and exclusions may differ depending on the property type.

  • Residential Properties: Unoccupied property insurance for residential dwellings caters to homes that are temporarily vacant, whether due to renovation, relocation, or seasonal absence. Coverage options typically include protection against risks like break-ins or water damage.
  • Commercial Properties: For commercial properties, unoccupied property insurance ensures that businesses are safeguarded during periods of vacancy. This includes protection for office spaces, retail stores, and warehouses against potential hazards that can occur in an unoccupied environment.

For more information on unoccupied property insurance tailored to both residential and commercial properties, contact us today to explore your options.

How long can a property be vacant before it is considered unoccupied for insurance purposes?

The length of time that a property can be vacant before it is considered unoccupied for insurance purposes varies depending on the insurance company. Some companies may consider a property to be unoccupied after it has been vacant for 30 days, while others may not consider it to be unoccupied until it has been vacant for 90 days or more. If you know that your property is likely to be empty for a long period of time, we would advise obtaining a quotation early so that you are able to get this in place as soon as necessary.

Are there any exclusions or limitations to coverage under unoccupied property insurance?

When considering unoccupied property insurance, it’s important to be aware that there are typically exclusions and limitations associated with the coverage. Understanding these terms can help you ensure your property is adequately protected. Here are some common exclusions and actions required by insurers:

  • Exclusions: Many insurers outline specific circumstances that may not be covered under your unoccupied property insurance policy. Common exclusions can include damages caused by certain natural disasters, wear and tear, or neglect. It's crucial to read your policy carefully to understand what is not included.
  • Limitations: Coverage limits may apply based on the length of time the property remains unoccupied. For example, after a certain period, your coverage might decrease or specific risks may no longer be covered.
  • Required Actions: Insurers may ask you to undertake specific actions to maintain coverage on your unoccupied property. These can include:
    • Regularly inspecting the property to identify any potential issues.
    • Turning off the mains services, such as water and electricity, to prevent damage.
    • Draining the hot water system to avoid risks related to freezing.
    • Blocking the letterbox to deter theft and unwanted attention.

Before finalising your unoccupied property insurance policy, we will discuss all requirements, exclusions, and limitations with you to ensure you fully understand your coverage.

If you have questions or need further clarification about unoccupied property insurance exclusions and limitations, contact us today for expert guidance tailored to your specific situation.

What steps should I take to secure my unoccupied property and reduce the risk of damage or theft?

There are a number of things you can do to secure your unoccupied property and reduce the risk of damage or theft, such as: Install a security system to keep the property clean and free of debris Turn off the utilities, such as water, electricity, and gas Close and lock all windows and doors Remove valuables from the property Check in on the property regularly.

How does the cost of unoccupied property insurance compare to regular property insurance?

The cost of unoccupied property insurance will vary depending on a number of factors, such as the type of property, its location, whether any works will be undertaken and the level of coverage you choose. However, it is generally more expensive than regular property insurance.

Can I get coverage for natural disasters or weather-related damage under unoccupied property insurance?

Whether or not you can get coverage for natural disasters or weather-related damage under unoccupied property insurance will depend on the specific policy. Some policies may offer this type of coverage, while others may not. If there is a specific type of loss that you are worried about, discuss this with us before hand and we will do our best to find a policy that meets your needs.

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