Owning a vacant building can pose serious liabilities because vacant buildings are more susceptible to vandalism, undetected repairs, fire, and other losses. If you own vacant property, it is advisable to purchase vacant property insurance, also known as vacant building insurance or vacant dwelling insurance, to protect against risks.
Risks
The following are the most prevalent risks to vacant properties:
- Fire
- Lightning damage
- Explosion
- Windstorm or hail damage
- Smoke
- Riot or civil commotion damage
- Sprinkler leakage
- Sinkhole collapse
- Vandalism (no one is present to deter vandals)
- Malicious mischief on the property and general property destruction
- The presence of squatters on the property causing damage without the owner’s knowledge
Insurance Solutions
Under certain policies, vacant property insurance can provide protection if your building goes unoccupied for as little as four days. It also protects against liabilities in the event someone is injured on your property and sues for damages. In some cases, it is required when a property owner dies and the property goes to an estate sale. It may also be a viable option if the property is in the process of being sold or if it is under construction and is uninhabitable.
In addition to purchasing coverage for a vacant building, take the following actions:
- Regularly inspect it for damage or threats of damage
- Seal off windows and letterboxes
- Install alarm systems that are triggered by intruders, fires, or floods
Cost
A typical vacant property insurance policy is one and a half to three times the cost of a property insurance policy due to the increased risks associated with owning an uninhabited building.
If your occupied property becomes vacant, it is imperative that you notify SouthGroup Insurance immediately. If you fail to give us adequate notice (in some cases, the required notice is 60 days after it becomes vacant) and you suffer a loss, coverage may be denied.
We understand that unfavorable incidents can occur, but vacant property insurance can provide the necessary protection. Contact us today for more details.
This Coverage Insights is not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel or an insurance professional for appropriate advice. © 2011, 2023 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.