Vacant Dwelling Insurance: Protecting Your Empty Property

Owning a home or property comes with responsibilities, but what happens when that property sits empty for weeks, months, or even longer? A vacant house can be especially vulnerable to risks such as vandalism, theft, fire, or storm damage. Standard homeowners’ policies often limit or exclude coverage when a property is unoccupied for an extended period. That’s why having the right vacant dwelling insurance is essential to protecting your investment.

At Hawsey Insurance, we help property owners throughout Mississippi secure the coverage they need to safeguard vacant homes, rental properties between tenants, and houses awaiting sale.

Why Vacant Dwelling Insurance Is Necessary

Many property owners are surprised to learn that a traditional homeowners’ insurance policy may not cover losses if the home has been vacant for more than 30–60 days. Insurance companies see unoccupied properties as higher risk because:

• No one is present to notice problems quickly. A small leak can turn into major water damage if left unchecked.
• Vacant homes attract crime. Empty houses are often targets for vandalism, trespassing, and theft.
• Increased liability risks. If someone is injured on your property while it’s vacant, you could still be held responsible.
• Maintenance issues go unnoticed. Weather damage, roof leaks, or pest infestations may worsen when a property sits empty.

With a vacant dwelling insurance policy, you can rest easier knowing your property is covered even when no one is living there.

What Does Vacant Dwelling Insurance Cover?

Policies can be customized depending on your situation, but most vacant dwelling insurance provides coverage for:

1. Property Damage

   Protects against perils such as fire, lightning, wind, hail, vandalism, or theft. This ensures your structure is covered against common risks.

2. Liability Protection

   If someone is injured on your vacant property—such as a contractor, real estate agent, or trespasser—liability insurance helps cover medical costs and legal fees.

3. Vandalism & Theft

   Vacant homes are more likely to be broken into or vandalized. This coverage provides peace of mind against such losses.

4. Optional Coverages

   Depending on your needs, you may also add coverage for detached structures (like garages or sheds), equipment, or personal property left inside the home.

When Do You Need Vacant Dwelling Insurance?

Vacant dwelling insurance is designed for a variety of situations. You may need this type of policy if:

• You have moved out and your home is for sale but not yet sold.
• You own rental property that is currently between tenants.
• You’re completing renovations and the home will be unoccupied for several months.
• You’ve inherited a home that is empty while you decide what to do with it.
• You’re a property investor holding onto a home before resale or rental.

In all of these cases, your standard homeowners’ or landlord insurance may not fully cover you. A vacant dwelling policy bridges that gap.

How Long Can You Keep a Vacant Dwelling Policy?

Vacant dwelling policies are flexible. Some are short-term, designed for just a few months, while others can extend up to a year or longer. At Hawsey Insurance, we’ll work with you to determine the right length of coverage based on your unique situation.

Why Work with Hawsey Insurance?

Not all insurance agencies understand the specific risks of vacant properties. At Hawsey Insurance, we have years of experience helping Mississippi property owners protect their investments with policies tailored to their needs.

When you choose us, you get:

• Expert Guidance: We explain your options clearly so you know exactly what’s covered.
• Custom Solutions: We design policies that fit your property and budget.
• Local Knowledge: We understand the unique risks that Mississippi property owners face, from severe weather to crime concerns.
• Personal Service: Our team is always here to answer questions, adjust your policy, and provide claims support if the unexpected happens.

Get a Quote for Vacant Dwelling Insurance

Don’t let your property sit unprotected. Whether your home is for sale, between tenants, or undergoing renovations, vacant dwelling insurance provides the coverage you need to safeguard your investment.

Contact Hawsey Insurance today to learn more about our affordable and flexible vacant dwelling insurancepolicies. Call us or visit www.hawseyinsurance.com to request a free, no-obligation quote.