Vacant but protected: Tips for safeguarding vacant homes

If an adverse event such as a fire or burst pipe happens when you’re at home, you can act quickly to prevent or limit damage. But what happens if a home you own is presently vacant? There are several steps you can take to help secure unoccupied or vacant homes and protect them from potential damage.

Consider these two scenarios when a home is temporarily without occupants: You go on a three-week vacation without using a house sitter or you own a vacation home that often sits unused. The home still may contain furniture and other property—and the home will be occupied again after your absence. In both scenarios, the home in question would generally not be considered vacant by the terms and conditions of most homeowners insurance policies but may be considered unoccupied. 

On the other hand, if a home contains no furniture or personal property—if it’s empty except for installed appliances and fixtures—and no one lives there for more than 30 days, then the home may be considered a vacant property. Homes can become vacant following a change in ownership (e.g., via a sale or through inheritance), following a work transfer, during renovations, or for other unforeseen circumstances.

Generally, vacant homes have additional and different risk profiles than occupied homes, but there are several steps you can take to reduce these risks. Some steps may be taken immediately, while others may require some upgrades to current systems (and many of the steps can be followed even for temporarily unoccupied homes):

• Maintain a consistent temperature of 55°F or higher — In cold climates, maintaining your vacant or unoccupied home at an appropriate temperature can help prevent frozen pipes, which can burst and lead to water damage. A stable temperature in cold climates can also reduce the swelling and shrinking of your home’s structural materials. In hot climates, a stable temperature can help prevent mold growth. Internet-connected temperature monitors and alarms can alert you to respond to changes in temperature.
• Winterize unoccupied or vacant homes — Along with maintaining a stable temperature, there are additional steps you can take to protect these homes from winter-related risks. Key actions include draining water lines, insulating water pipes, shutting off water at the main water valve, keeping gutters clear, and directing downspouts away from your home’s foundation.
• Test your backup generator weekly — Backup generators can help maintain an appropriate temperature during power outages. To keep generators operational, test them weekly. Some newer generators have auto-test features that can be reviewed remotely.
• Remove garbage and pest-proof your home — Take steps to prevent pests from being attracted to your home by removing garbage and debris in and around the property. In addition, cut off access pests may have to your home by sealing gaps in your home’s exterior.
• Install motion sensor exterior lights — Motion-activated and timer-controlled lights can give the appearance that your home is occupied and discourage trespassers.

While upgrades can help protect your unoccupied or vacant home, contracting with service providers can provide extra protection and peace of mind. Consider seeking out these services:

• Property management — A property management company can help you monitor and maintain your properties, as well as rapidly address any issues. Early detection and remediation of problems can significantly reduce the cost of a claim. 
• Alarm monitoring service — A monitored fire and burglar alarm system can add a layer of protection and enable a fast response from emergency services. Posting a sign indicating that your home has a monitored alarm system can also help act as a deterrent to theft.
• Yard service — Maintaining your lawn and landscaping will help give the appearance that the home is occupied and deter trespassers or squatters.