Unoccupied Properties and Policy Conditions

November 2020

In light of the ongoing government restrictions we wanted to remind you the majority of insurers stipulate the actions a policyholder must take in the event their premises is empty, vacant or unoccupied.

Please find a fairly normal example of the type of conditions for unoccupied premises frequently seen, although these do vary and you should not assume your own policy would be identical to this example. We would urge you to check your policy documentation and if in doubt, contact us for assistance:-

Example - Unoccupied Property Conditions

For policies with Unoccupied Premises provisions already embedded in the policy wording, standard terms and conditions will apply. However, for policy wordings that require immediate notification we can confirm cover will continue without the need to notify ourselves if the premises are required to close due to the new lockdown until 00.01 hours 2nd December, subject compliance with the following conditions *example below* :

• The Insurer must be notified immediately.
• The premises must be secured by putting all protective locking devices and any alarm protection into effective operation.
• Gas, water and electricity supplies at the mains must be switched off (except electricity needed to maintain any fire or intruder alarm systems, or water and heating systems for fire sprinkler systems).
• The policyholder or their representative must visit the premises every seven days and ensure that any damage or work required to maintain the security of the premises is carried out immediately
• Removal of all post, trade refuse and waste materials from the interior of the premises, allowing no accumulation of refuse or waste in the adjoining yards or spaces owned by the insured. Some insurers require the letterbox to be sealed.

Please ensure you have checked your own policy conditions and are aware of the obligations set out by insurers. It is important to note that the government restrictions do not exempt a policyholder from complying with the policy conditions. Where you find yourself not able to conform with the above you should let us know as soon as possible, we shall then try to help you by referring into the underwriter for assistance. Whilst our main phone lines are temporarily closed, we remain available by direct dial or mobile as set out below.