For the past 20 or 30 years, holiday home ownership has become ever more popular with large numbers of people now owning second properties for that weekend getaway or the summer holidays. This sometimes leads to questions regarding holiday homes insurance.

Do I need separate holiday homes insurance?

That depends upon a number of different factors.

Some primary residential insurance may be able to be extended to cover second holiday homes though there are also separate policies specifically designed for such properties.

The holiday homes insurance you choose will be a matter of personal choice once you have reviewed the cover and prices available.

Note that standard primary residence insurance is typically unlikely to offer automatic cover for secondary properties.

What about if I use and rent out my holiday home?

If you obtain income from a property of any sort, then your interests are commercial.

That means your holiday homes policy will need to provide cover for commercial use and protection against things such as third party liability (in case someone you rent to sues you for damages they or their property have sustained as a result of your property).

Insurers typically see the commercial use of a property as being significantly different to that where you alone (or your immediate family) are using it for personal holidays and it may be highly advisable to check the specifics against your policy or a policy you are considering.

Note that both the law and your insurance may place specific responsibilities upon you if you do rent your property out (e.g. gas inspections etc) and a failure to comply may invalidate your insurance and render you liable for prosecution.

Are home insurance quotes available for all holiday properties?

Typically yes, however, that may depend upon the exact nature of your property as well as its precise location.

For example, it may be difficult to secure cover from some insurers, if your home is located in a known high flood-risk area (if you are considering buying, your solicitor may confirm that for you but local insurers, local councils and the local press, may all be good other sources to check).

Can I cover my overseas property but through a UK insurer?

At one time that was difficult but it is now becoming easier. Some insurers now offer such services.

What if my property is closed up for lengthy periods?

Policies covering second holiday homes will typically recognise that such properties may be unoccupied for large parts of the year.

Holiday homes insurance may specify that you take certain precautions while the house is closed up, including the removal of any higher-value items, the draining down of water supply and heating systems plus the switching off of electricity at the consumer supply unit.

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