Why You Need Empty Property Insurance
Whether you’re a landlord between tenants or a property investor awaiting planning or refurbishment, owning an unoccupied property brings a unique set of risks — and many owners aren’t properly insured.
Standard policies usually become restricted or invalid once a property is empty for more than 30 consecutive days.
This guide explains the key risks and how to make sure your building is protected without overpaying.
What Counts as an Unoccupied Property?
A property is considered unoccupied when:
- It has no legal tenants or residents
- It’s awaiting sale, renovation, or probate
- It’s vacant for more than 30 days (typical insurer limit)
After this period, most standard policies reduce cover to FLEA only (Fire, Lightning, Explosion, Aircraft) — or may exclude cover entirely.
The Hidden Risks of Empty Buildings
Vacant properties face higher risks, including:
- Arson or accidental fire
- Vandalism or malicious damage
- Squatters and trespassers
- Theft of copper, wiring, or appliances
- Undetected leaks or burst pipes
- Weather damage from storms or flooding
If these occur and you haven’t disclosed the unoccupied status, your insurer may refuse to pay out.
Common Mistakes Property Owners Make
- Not telling the insurer the property is empty If your property has been vacant for 30+ days and the insurer doesn’t know, you’re likely uninsured.
- Assuming a standard landlord policy provides full cover Most policies exclude escape of water, theft, or malicious damage once the property is empty.
- Buying the cheapest quote “just to satisfy the lender” Low-cost policies often lack meaningful protection and can invalidate claims when you need them most.
What Does Empty Property Insurance Cover?
SRS Insurance offers flexible, specialist cover that can include:
- Fire, Lightning, Explosion, Aircraft (FLEA)
- Theft & Vandalism (optional)
- Escape of Water (subject to inspection schedule)
- Storm, Flood, Subsidence
- Malicious or Accidental Damage
- Property Owners’ Liability
- Legal Expenses & Squatter Eviction
- Loss of Rent (if pre-let or under contract)
We’ll also help you meet inspection conditions — such as draining systems, turning off utilities, and maintaining weekly visits.
Who Needs This Cover?
Empty Property Insurance is essential for:
- Residential landlords between tenants
- Property investors awaiting planning or refurbishment
- Executors managing probate estates
- Developers with unsold or part-completed homes
- Owners of vacant shops, pubs, or offices
- Property guardianship or asset management companies
Whether vacant for 30 days or 12 months, we’ll find the right balance of protection and affordability.
Flexible Terms & Payment Options
- 3-, 6-, or 12-month policies
- Monthly instalment options
- Seamless conversion to a standard landlord policy when tenanted
This ensures you never pay for more than you need — and never risk a gap in cover.
Why Choose SRS Insurance?
- Specialists in property, landlord, and portfolio insurance
- Fast quotes with same-day documentation for lenders or solicitors
- Access to UK’s top unoccupied property insurers
- Dedicated claims support and risk advice
- Transparent, compliant, and competitively priced cover
We understand the urgency of real-world property transactions — that’s why we combine speed, accuracy, and personal service in every case.