Building insurance for unoccupied property

[Webber3]

Does anyone know of an insurance company that will do building insurance for an unoccupied property? My own insurer won't even quote, as the property is going to be unoccupied for 60 days at least. The property is a refurb project that's been gutted and is about to be extended.

[Zippee]

It's expensive but I used MSM (http://msminsurance.co.uk/) when we were renovating our current house late last year. The property was unoccupied for just over 2 months.

[Webber3]

Is it more expensive than an occupied house?

I know there's a risk the builders could bring the house down (and this is what I'm worried about), but I don't see what the issue is with the house being unoccupied. Do they consider the house is at more risk of falling down if it's unoccupied for a few months?

[Galsia]

I'm guessing the risk of squatters has a effect on the prices...

[Paul Drawmer]

Is the job solely under the care and control of the builders? If so, it may be possible for them to cover it under their contract works cover. They do have that; don't they?

Is there a written contract? - will shared insurance under JCT terms apply? - what has your builder said about cover?

[chrismcg1]

I do these types of policies all the time and yes they can be a bit more expensive than a standard policy.
Main reason is unoccupied houses have a massive risk of being torched by little scroats, or if there is a water leak - this might not be noticed for a longer time than if the property was lived in. If you need any assistance let me know.

Cheers.

[Webber3]

Thanks for the replies.

When I say builders, it's not one building firm, but rather a project manager and a number of other self employed tradesmen that are doing the work. They may all have individual liability insurance, but I thought it safer to get my own policy on the property.

The house has been stripped out, it's completely open to the elements at the back and not exactly dry inside. As I say I'm just looking for a policy that covers the structure really, as there's nothing inside that can be damaged.