Helena Talbot’s blog – Insuring an Empty Home? Four Things You Need to Know

Whether it’s a seldom-used vacation home or an unoccupied rental property, if you’re responsible for a vacant property, make sure you have the right kind of insurance in place. When looking for homeowners insurance for an unoccupied residence, the process can be difficult. Many companies will not cover such a dwelling or charge high premiums because of the increased risk associated with vacant properties. The chances of burglary and vandalism are higher. The potential of unnoticed damage, which can compound problems and costs, also increases. There may also be an issue with squatters. 

If a residence is vacant for more than 30 days, a standard policy may become invalid. In order to find homeowners insurance that will cover this type of property for a reasonable price, here are four steps to take to help reduce risk and lower rates.

1. Make the home look occupied. Ask a neighbor to park their car in the driveway and put lights on a timer. Experts also recommend leaving furniture in the home. Make sure to also have newspapers and other mail stopped. 

2. Prepare the central heating and water. If a house will be empty during winter months, the risk of frozen pipes and water damage increases. By keeping the heat on at a low setting, this risk is reduced. 

3. Arrange for regular inspections. The majority of problems that occur with vacant properties often start out as minor issues. But because they go unnoticed for long periods of time, damage and expense gets compounded. By having a trusted third party make regular visits, this can be avoided and add peace of mind. 

4. Secure the property and remove valuables. All entry points should be secured with an alarm. Valuables should be removed so they do not attract attention that could lead to burglary. 

By following these tips, you can reduce the risk and hopefully use it as leverage to receive lower insurance rates.

I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia.

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  

I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

For a free market analysis on the value of your home, please visit http://www.LoudounHomeValues.com

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods includeLeesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800

Free iPhone/Android Mobile App to search Northern Virginia real estate.  2 easy ways to get the App:  Text “Exit9” to 87778 or enter http://87778.mobi/Exit9 into your browser.