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Unoccupied Property Landlord Insurance

Insure your empty property throughout the year with CIA Landlords.

Call us today on 01788 818 670

Cover for properties that are vacant for up to 12 months
Compared against 9 leading insurers

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What is unoccupied landlord insurance?

Unoccupied landlord insurance covers properties that will be left empty for longer than regular insurance policies allow. Standard landlord insurance policies typically only cover occupied properties and may not cover empty properties for more than 30 days or 60 days.

Unoccupied landlord insurance protects properties that are empty for longer periods of time, up to 12 months or more in some cases. You can be covered against damage from unforeseen events such as flooding, fires, and vandalism when the property is empty.

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Who needs unoccupied property insurance?

If your rental property will be vacant for 60 days or more, you should take out unoccupied property insurance. Properties are usually empty for longer periods of time if you're:

A landlord between tenants
Taking time to carry out renovations or repairs to the property
A landlord waiting on a property sale to be completed

What does landlord insurance for unoccupied properties cover?

Unoccupied landlords' insurance covers the building and contents if required. There are three levels of cover ranging from cover for major perils only to full peril cover together with the option of a 3, 6 or 12 month policy. Here at CIA, we can explain the levels of cover to ensure you have a policy that meets your requirements.

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
Legal protection
Malicious damage caused by tenants up to a maximum of £5,000
Theft by tenants up to a maximum of £5,000

Optional Extras

Malicious Damage & Theft By Tenants
Trace & Access Cover (most policies)
Landlord Legal Expenses
Legal Expenses

What isn't covered?

Accidental damage, plus general wear and tear are excluded from all of our unoccupied policies. Accidental damage is defined as damage that is caused by an unforeseen and unintended event. General wear and tear is the gradual deterioration of your property over time. This could include things like fading paint, chipped tiles, or a leaky roof.

Our expert says...

"Unoccupied policies can often appear complicated, so call us at CIA on 01788 818 670 to discuss your requirements and our knowledgeable staff will explain your options."

Jackie Compton - Sales General Manager

How can I get unoccupied landlord insurance?

Taking out unoccupied property insurance is often difficult and expensive; this is because insurance companies perceive the risks to be greater, so are uneasy about providing this sort of cover.

However, CIA happily provides extensive and comprehensive unoccupied property insurance for landlords across the UK. If you're struggling to find insurance for an unoccupied property at a price you can afford, or having trouble getting any cover at all, we can help.

We guarantee that we will never be beaten on price

If you find a like-for-like quotation cheaper anywhere in the UK market, we will match or beat it.

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Compared against 9 leading insurers
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How much does landlord insurance for empty properties cost?

The cost of unoccupied property insurance will depend on the size and value of the property, the length of time it will be unoccupied and the level of protection you choose.

Be aware that unoccupied property insurance is usually more expensive than regular landlord insurance because there are more risks associated with empty properties.

With an empty property, it takes longer for issues to be detected. The building is also at higher risk of vandals and thieves, pushing the premiums up.

How to keep your unoccupied property safe

As a landlord, you can take steps to reduce the risk of damage to your property and lower the likelihood of making a claim.

Notify your insurance company

Let your insurance company know that your property will be unoccupied for an extended period of time. They may require you to take certain steps to secure your property.

Turn off utilities

Turn off the water, gas, and electricity to your property. This will help to prevent damage in the event of a power outage or burst pipe.

Install a security system

A security system can deter burglars and help you to catch them if they do break in.

Get to know your neighbours

Tell your neighbours that your property will be unoccupied for an extended period of time. Ask them to keep an eye on it for you and report any suspicious activities.

Visit your property regularly

Even if you have taken all of the necessary precautions, you should still visit your property regularly. This will give you a chance to check on it and make sure that it is still secure.

What our customers are saying about our unoccupied landlord insurance Ranging from 90 days unoccupied to 1 year

Get short-term and long-term unoccupied landlord insurance

With CIA, our experts will listen to your needs and find you an insurance policy for the exact period that the property will be vacant. That way, you only pay for what you need.

We compare quotes from 9 leading insurers to find the best price. This is a whole market comparison which is more detailed than the comparisons made by the big names Comparethemarket and Money Supermarket.

Get short-term unoccupied landlord insurance for as little as 90 days. We can also offer specialist policies for properties that are empty for 12 months.

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