Unoccupied landlord insurance describes the cover a landlord needs when a let property is empty. Most of the time no separate policy is required, because landlord wordings carry a longer unoccupancy allowance than household ones. The decision only arises when a void runs past that allowance, or when the property is empty for a reason other than waiting for a tenant.
Inside the allowance
Landlord policies commonly allow thirty to ninety consecutive days. A normal turnaround, redecoration and remarketing usually fits inside the longer allowances and does not fit inside the shorter ones. Comparing the allowance at renewal is worth more to a landlord with frequent turnover than most of the other terms.
Past the allowance
Tell the insurer before the date, not after. Many will extend for a further period with conditions; some will not, and then a short term unoccupied policy runs alongside or instead. Either way the property should never be sitting past the allowance with nobody told.
Empty for a different reason
A property taken back for refurbishment, held pending sale, or empty because a tenancy ended badly and possession is being recovered is not simply between tenancies. Refurbishment usually needs a works policy. A property awaiting sale suits a short term unoccupied policy. Say which it is, because the insurer will treat each differently.
Questions people ask about unoccupied landlord insurance
Does my landlord policy cover a void?
Within its unoccupancy allowance, commonly thirty to ninety consecutive days. Beyond that cover narrows and the insurer must be told.
Which allowance should I look for?
The longest you can get, if your properties turn over often. It is one of the most useful terms to compare at renewal.
What if I am refurbishing between tenants?
Redecoration is usually fine. Rewiring, new kitchens and structural work normally need the insurer's agreement or a works policy.