If a property is going to be empty for a while, many assume it can quietly sit on the backburner – no tenants, no damage, no rush. But the truth is, an unoccupied property is at greater risk than one that’s lived in. And if something goes wrong while it’s uninsured, the financial fallout could be huge.
Why Properties Are Left Unoccupied
Homes can sit empty for all kinds of reasons, including:
- Between tenants
- Awaiting sale or renovation
- Inherited and going through probate
- Second homes or holiday properties used seasonally
- Owners working abroad or relocating temporarily
And while each case is different, they all share one thing in common: the property is exposed.
What Can Go Wrong Without Insurance?
- Water damage goes unnoticed
A leaking pipe might be a minor repair in a lived-in home. But if no one spots it for weeks, it could become a major insurance claim – or worse, one you can’t make at all if the home is uninsured. - Break-ins or vandalism
Empty homes are easy targets. If thieves or vandals break in, the damage could be significant – especially if your policy has lapsed or doesn’t include cover for unoccupied periods. - Squatters or unauthorised entry
Even in short periods of vacancy, squatters or trespassers can enter a property. Removing them can be time-consuming and expensive — not to mention the damage or legal complications left behind. - No public liability protection
If someone is injured on or around your empty property — say a loose roof tile or unstable fence – you could be held liable. Without valid insurance, you’re footing the legal and compensation costs. - Refused claims on your standard policy
Many standard home and landlord policies reduce or void cover if the home is left empty for 30+ days without notice. That means you might assume you’re covered, only to be told otherwise when making a claim.
What Is Unoccupied Property Insurance?
Unoccupied property insurance is designed for homes that will be empty for a period of time. Whether that’s a few weeks or several months, this specialist cover steps in where standard policies step out.
Carbon offers flexible terms (3, 6, or 12 months) and policies that include:
- Fire, flood, storm, theft and vandalism cover
- Public liability insurance
- Optional contents cover
- Emergency repair assistance
- Malicious damage
- Legal expenses (optional)
Who Needs It?
You should consider unoccupied cover if:
- The property will be empty for more than 30 days
- You’re selling or renting, and there will be a gap between occupants
- You’re inheriting a property going through probate
- You own a second home used only part of the year
- Renovation work means the property can’t be lived in temporarily
What Makes Carbon Different?
At Carbon Insurance Brokers, we know unoccupied properties come with unique risks and time pressures. We specialise in non-standard and hard-to-place insurance, and we work with you to:
- Tailor the right level of cover
- Offer clear, expert advice — no jargon
- Make adjustments easily as your plans change
- Support you through the claims process if needed
We’re not here to sell generic policies. We’re here to protect what matters, when it matters most.
Contact Us
Unoccupied properties might be out of sight, but they shouldn’t be out of mind. Whether it’s a few weeks or several months, going uninsured could leave you exposed to major costs and stress.
You can contact us to learn more by calling us on 333 043 1300 or by making an enquiry online.
Alternatively, you can learn more about what happens if you don’t insure your unoccupied property here:
