A warning and a question

[KARL]

Our home insurance has a stipulation that we can only leave the property unoccupied for a maximum of 60 days at a time. It turns out that the underwriters might consider several 30 day absences (or other multiples) more than they are prepared to accept and that if there was a claim they would then refuse to honour the policy. This is something people might not be aware of, namely that staying within the literal terms might not be enough - you may unwittingly become uninsured just because when the claim arises they decide you should have notified them of your movements (even though that is not a stated requirement).

The question: Can anyone suggest an insurer or agent who can offer a policy that clearly covers a UK property through a total absence of several months a year, albeit in bits.

[Old_Geezer]

No expert, but unless the 'get out clause' was in the small print, I'd be surprised if they can go against the agreed terms.

I would expect most places to consider such a request although the premium may not be favourable, or the area may be one they don't wish to touch.

[Maydup]

All insurers will cover you, you just need to shop around as usual with that as one of your criteria. ie when asked if you're away for long periods just answer yes and give more details.

[KARL]

Actually, Maidup, no they don't, at least none of those I have been talking to to date. That is exactly the point, everyone assumes all is well but under the circumstances I have described the brown stuff snarls things up. It is proving extremely difficult to get cover that allows us the freedom of going away as and when we want to for however long we want to. It may end up so that we insure our house as a holiday home but then there will be all sorts of conditions attached, not to mention the price.

[cathfromsaron]

this where housesitters come in!

if you are in hospital for example, most insurers still agree to insure you if you notify them that the property is unoccupied at night but checked regularly in the day by a responsible person!

also, houses for sale can be covered!

[Maydup]

You ask if we can suggest an insurer who can offer a policy that covers an empty property.

Here's a link or two.
http://www.ukinsuranc...y-house-insurance.asp
http://www.towergatei...ey8urACFUUhtAodtG1Aqw
http://www.endsleigh....operty-insurance.aspx

No-one says its going to be cheap as the chance of getting squatters and having it vandalled is higher. Have you considered getting a short term tennant? If you were to let it for a while or get a house sitter you might be better off.

[Maydup]

^^^ These are results of a simple google search by the way. I have done no research and have no experience of these or any of the many other companies who offer specialist insurances.

[shoota]

Try Intasure - I have a home and two holiday properties with them and they are very accommodating.
http://www.intasure.c...7G-urACFQwjfAodTXEaqg

[Yorky Lass]

Karl, I'm having exactly the same problem. My current policy with Morethan ceases end of June. The new rate for buildings and contents will be £230 with the 60 days cover. I enquired to increase it to 90 days and the premium would be £500!!!!
Like Maidup I have been Googling and completing quotes all morning ( inc the ones Maidup mentioned) and have got nowhere. As soon as you state over 60 days they don't want to know. Even though their advert suggests they would.
Will have a look at Shoota's link now.