What defines a holiday home?
A holiday home is a property you own that isn't your main residence. It is used for short-term stays for you and your family, friends and also let out to paying guests. A holiday home can be a house, cottage or apartment and is often located in tourist hotspots like the seaside, countryside or in areas of historical interest.
If you are planning to rent out your holiday home, you need to make sure that it is properly furnished and equipped. You also need to comply with any local regulations that apply to holiday homes.
What does holiday home insurance cover?
You can get different types of cover - buildings insurance, contents insurance or both.
Buildings insurance overs the property's structure against damage from fire, flood, storms and vandalism. and will also cover fixtures such as kitchens and bathrooms. Permanently fixed hot tubs and swimming pools. can also be covered for certain perils. You will need to calculate the rebuild costs of your home prior to getting a quotation.
Contents insurance relates to the furniture and appliances and in the holiday home such as the beds, fridge, linen and TV. You will need to calculate the cost of replacing the items in the home prior to obtaining a quotation.
- Buildings only
- Buildings & contents
- Contents only (not including your tenant's belongings)
- Fixtures and fittings
- Full accidental damage
- Loss of rent
- Alternative accommodation
- Property owner's liability
- Unoccupied property cover
- Malicious Damage & Theft By Tenants
- Trace & Access Cover (most policies)
Do I need UK holiday home insurance?
Standard home insurance and landlord insurance policies aren't valid for holiday homes - you need specialist cover.
UK holiday homes are deemed a greater insurance risk because they are unoccupied for long periods. They are often located by the sea or near rivers, so can be open to the elements, putting properties at a higher risk of damage from strong winds and flooding.
Although it's not a legal requirement to take out holiday let insurance, it gives you peace of mind that your investment is protected in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
Advice Centre for Landlords
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