Vacant home insurance, also known as unoccupied home insurance, is a type of insurance policy designed to protect properties that are vacant or unoccupied for an extended period of time. Standard homeowners insurance policies typically exclude coverage for properties that are vacant for more than 30 days, so it's important for homeowners to consider obtaining a separate vacant home insurance policy if they plan to leave their home unoccupied for an extended period.
Vacant home insurance policies typically provide coverage for a range of risks, including damage from fire, theft, vandalism, and natural disasters. The coverage may also include liability protection in the event that someone is injured on the property. However, it's important to note that vacant home insurance policies may not cover certain types of damage, such as damage caused by frozen pipes or mold, if the homeowner fails to take appropriate measures to prevent these issues from occurring.
The cost of vacant home insurance can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as the location of the property, the type of construction, and the amount of coverage needed. In general, vacant home insurance policies are more expensive than standard homeowners insurance policies due to the increased risk of damage or theft that comes with an unoccupied property.
To minimize the risk of damage to a vacant property and potentially lower the cost of insurance, homeowners should take steps to secure their property while it's unoccupied. This may include installing an alarm system, boarding up windows and doors, and hiring someone to regularly check on the property and perform necessary maintenance tasks.
Overall, vacant home insurance provides an important layer of protection for homeowners who need to leave their property unoccupied for an extended period. By obtaining a separate insurance policy, homeowners can ensure that their property is protected from a range of risks and that they have the financial resources to address any damage or liability issues that may arise.