Homeowners Warned Of 30 Day Home Insurance Rule

All those who thought that they had made a smart move by relying on home insurance to cover their house 24/7 for 365 days of the year should do a reality check. There is a caveat in what home insurance promises.

Home insurance companies are warning that up to 561,000 homes which owners have left believing to be fully covered may in fact be ineligible for their policies.

The home insurance industry has highlighted a common clause in policies, invalidating them if a property is left absent for 30 or more consecutive days. Up to 47 per cent of all home insurance policies issued will restrict cover if a property is left for this time.

Home insurance companies say that long-term travellers or those who may be away on business should check the small print and if necessary seek specialist cover.

"A substantial number of householders leave their property unoccupied for long periods of time. But few realise that just a four week holiday could invalidate the policy," said a home insurance spokesperson.

"We recommend that any householder anticipating leaving their home unoccupied for a significant period of time carefully review the terms of their policy.”

"Furthermore, homes are increasingly vulnerable when left unoccupied so householders should take sensible steps - such as putting lights onto a timer switch - to make the property look lived in and minimise the risks they face," she added. Another option is to ask a trusted friend to either stay in the house for at least a part of the time you are away or simply for them to check on the house.

There are many reasons why you may leave your home unattended for such a long period of time. Perhaps you are in the armed forces and have been posted to another location. Maybe you are lucky enough to have a second or holiday home and spend time there. Perhaps it is the house of an elderly relative who has died and you are not quite sure whether to sell it or move in.

If you would like to know more about home insurance why not ask AnswerBank Insurance.