Did you know that leaving a house unoccupied for an extended period can lead to some serious problems? If you’re planning on going on vacation or taking a long trip, be sure to take the necessary precautions to protect your home.
This is not as simple as just locking the door and leaving. There are many things homeowners need to consider before they leave their homes vacant. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most important things homeowners need to keep in mind when leaving their house unoccupied.
We will also provide some tips on how to properly prepare your home before you leave it unattended. So, if you are considering leaving your house empty for an extended period of time, make sure to read this guide!
Table of Contents
• What Counts As An Unoccupied House
• How Long Can A House Be Left Unoccupied
• Risk Of Leaving Your House Unoccupied
• How To Protect Your Unoccupied House
• What Does Vacant Home Insurance Cover
• Insurance For Unoccupied House Being Renovated
➥Why Should You Sell You Unoccupied House To ASAP Cash Offer
What Counts As An Unoccupied House?
An unoccupied house is defined as a property that is not lived in by the owner or any other occupants. This can include homes that are for sale, being rented out or are simply unoccupied for an extended period.
It’s important to note that even if you’re only leaving your home vacant for a short period, it’s still considered unoccupied. This means that you’ll need to take the same precautions as if you were gone for an extended period.
How Long Can A House Be Left Unoccupied?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on several factors. However, most experts agree that a house can be left unoccupied for up to 30 days without any problems. If you’re planning on leaving your home vacant for longer than that, be sure to take the necessary precautions to protect your property.
If you’re leaving your house unoccupied while you go on vacation, there are a few things you need to do to protect your property. Ensure that the property is well-secured before you leave. So that you will not have to worry about it while you’re away.
Risk Of Leaving Your House Unoccupied
Leaving your house unoccupied for an extended period can put it at risk in several ways. Here are just a few of the risks you need to be aware of:
- Home insurance policies may not cover unoccupied properties
- The property may be more vulnerable to break-ins
- The property may be more vulnerable to vandalism
- The property may be more vulnerable to weather damage.
- Squatters may attempt to take up residence on the property.
How To Protect Your Unoccupied House
Leaving your home unoccupied can be a risky proposition. Here are just a few things you can do to protect your property to ensure that your property is safe and sound.:
1. Get homeowners insurance: Homeowner’s insurance typically covers damage caused by fires, storms, burglaries, and more. If you’re leaving your home unoccupied for an extended period, be sure to get coverage that will protect your property.
2. Install a security system: A security system can deter burglars and give you peace of mind while you’re away from home. Be sure to choose a system that’s right for your needs and budget.
3. Stop mail and newspaper delivery: Stacks of newspapers and uncollected mail are telltale signs that a house is unoccupied. Be sure to stop all deliveries before you leave town.
4. Have a friend or neighbor check in: Ask a trusted friend or neighbor to keep an eye on your property while you’re gone. They can collect mail, and water plants and keep an eye out for any suspicious activity.
5. Use timers on lights: One of the easiest ways to make it look like someone is home is to use timers on your lights. This will give the illusion that someone is moving around inside even when the house is empty.
6. Keep valuables out of sight: If you have any valuables that are visible from the outside of your home, be sure to store them safely before you leave town. This will deter burglars and give you one less thing to worry about while you’re away.
7. Lock all doors and windows: This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to make sure all doors and windows are locked before you leave town. Burglars are always on the lookout for easy targets, so don’t make it easy for them.
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8. Disconnect all electronics: Unplugging all electronics will not only save you money on your energy bill, but it will also protect your appliances from power surges.
9. Turn off the water: One of the most important things you can do before leaving town is to turn off the water at your home. This will prevent any leaks or flooding while you’re away.
10. Prepare for emergencies: No one ever wants to think about an emergency, but it’s important to be prepared just in case. Be sure to have a plan in place in case of fire, flood, or another type of disaster.
By following these simple tips, you can protect your home and give yourself peace of mind while you’re away.
What Does Vacant Home Insurance Cover?
If you’re leaving your home unoccupied for an extended period, it’s important to have the right insurance in place. Homeowner’s insurance typically covers damage caused by fires, storms, burglaries, and more. However, if you’re planning on being gone for an extended period, you may need to get additional coverage.
Talk to your insurance agent about your specific needs to make sure your property is properly protected while you’re away. They usually cover 30 days unoccupied.
Insurance For Unoccupied House Being Renovated
If you’re renovating your home and it will be unoccupied for an extended period, you may need to get special insurance coverage. Standard homeowners insurance policies typically don’t cover damage caused by renovation work, so be sure to talk to your insurer about your options.
Sell House Empty Or Occupied
If you’re selling your home, you may be wondering if it’s better to sell it empty or occupied. There are pros and cons to both options, so it’s important to weigh your choices carefully.
Selling your home while it’s still occupied can be easier because you won’t have to deal with the hassle of moving all your belongings out. However, it can be difficult to show your home if it’s still full of furniture and personal belongings.
On the other hand, selling your home empty may make it more appealing to buyers. An empty house can feel more spacious and inviting, making it easier for potential buyers to imagine themselves living there. Plus, you won’t have to worry about packing up and moving all your stuff before the sale.
Why Should You Sell You Unoccupied House To ASAP Cash Offer?
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