Can You Insure an Empty Property in Birmingham?
If you’re a landlord in Birmingham or the surrounding areas like Northfield, Selly Oak or Harborne, there might be times when your property is left empty. Maybe you’ve just bought a buy-to-let and are carrying out renovations, or perhaps there’s a short gap between tenants.
Even when a property isn’t occupied, it still needs to be protected. Fire, flood, vandalism and theft can all happen when you least expect it, and many standard landlord insurance policies don’t cover homes left vacant for too long. That’s where empty property insurance (also known as unoccupied property insurance) comes in.
What Is Empty Property Insurance?
Empty property insurance provides cover for buildings and contents when a home is unoccupied for longer than your standard policy allows. It protects your investment from common risks such as:
- Fire
- Flooding
- Vandalism
- Theft or attempted break-ins
- Burst pipes and water damage
- Storm damage
Insurance companies see empty properties as higher risk, mainly because there’s no one living there to spot problems early or deter potential intruders. That’s why most standard policies only provide cover for a limited period, usually between 30 and 60 days.
If your property is empty for longer, you’ll need a specialist unoccupied property insurance policy to stay protected.
When Do You Need to Insure an Empty Property?
There are plenty of situations where landlords may need unoccupied property cover, including:
Extended void periods
When one tenant moves out and the next tenant isn’t ready to move in yet.
Renovations or refurbishments
If you’ve bought a property and need to carry out repairs before letting it out, you’ll need cover while the work takes place.
Inherited property
If you’ve inherited a home and are waiting for probate or deciding what to do with it, insurance ensures it stays protected.
Long holidays or absences
Even short-term empty periods can leave your property vulnerable, so it’s always worth checking your existing policy’s terms.
What Does Empty Property Insurance Cover?
Policies vary between insurers, but most include:
- Fire and smoke damage
- Flood and storm damage
- Theft or attempted burglary
- Escape of water (burst pipes or leaks)
- Vandalism and malicious damage
- Squatter removal and legal expenses
Some policies also include public liability insurance, which protects you if someone is injured on your property.
What Isn’t Covered by Empty Property Insurance?
Most unoccupied home insurance policies won’t cover:
- Damage or theft caused by unforced entry (e.g. if doors or windows were left unlocked)
- Gradual wear and tear
- Unreported damage that worsens over time
Always check the policy details carefully so you know exactly what’s included.
How Much Does Empty Property Insurance Cost?
Because vacant properties carry higher risks, the insurance is usually more expensive than standard landlord cover. Prices depend on the value of the property, how long it will be empty and the level of cover you choose.
As a general guide:
- Around £200–£250 for 30–60 days of cover
- Around £300+ for properties left empty for longer periods
How to Reduce the Cost of Unoccupied Property Insurance
You can often lower your premiums by reducing risk. Here are a few simple steps that help:
- Install burglar alarms, CCTV or smart security systems
- Fit high-quality locks on doors and windows
- Remove any valuable items from the property
- Arrange for someone to check the property regularly
- Increase your voluntary excess for a lower premium
The more secure and well-maintained your property is, the less risky it looks to insurers.
Why It’s Important for Birmingham Landlords
Empty property insurance isn’t just about ticking a box, it’s about protecting your investment. Whether you’re between tenants in Northfield, updating a property in Selly Oak, or waiting for a buyer in Bournville, having the right cover gives you peace of mind that your asset is safe.
If you’re experiencing long void periods, our team at Oakmans Estate Agents can help reduce them by finding reliable tenants quickly. Click here to find out more
Final Thoughts
If your property is likely to be empty for more than a few weeks, check your insurance policy right away. You may need to arrange specialist empty property insurance to make sure you’re covered for every eventuality.
For landlords across Birmingham, we’re here to help you protect your property, minimise void periods and stay compliant with all your legal obligations.
Contact Oakmans Estate Agents to find out how our lettings team can help you manage your property safely and confidently.