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Find second home insurance in the UK

How does second home insurance work?

Insurance for a second home will offer special cover that is tailored to homes that are not used as your main residence. These policies include coverage that is often excluded from standard home insurance, so your second home is better protected. Second home insurance at its core is designed to protect your building and its contents, just like all home insurance. However, it takes into account that the property is likely to be empty or let out for part of the year, and the unique risks that this brings. 

The benefits of second home insurance?

Second homes or holiday homes are a huge investment and can even be a source of income and security. However, they can be left unoccupied for long periods. This leaves them open to risks like burglary, vandalism or unnoticed damage like leaks and electrical faults. Insuring your investment comes with obvious benefits, protecting you from the financial risks that come with owning a home. Second home insurance can also offer various levels of additional coverage that are not available as standard with traditional home insurance. As well as peace of mind, you’ll also have more flexibility on how the home can be used. This makes it a great option for holiday homes or rental properties, with some policies even offering cover for properties abroad. 

Types of second home insurance coverage

The insurance needs of your second home can differ depending on where it is and how it is used. Considering these key coverage types can help you find the most suitable policy for you.  

Second home buildings insurance

Second home buildings only insurance is a specialised buildings insurance that protects the physical structure of your second property. It can include accidental damage cover as standard, or an optional add-on.  

A comprehensive policy could also cover garages and sheds, as well as walls, roofs, and even pools. This type of policy is usually based on the rebuild cost of the building, and not the market value of the property. 

Second home contents insurance

Protecting your contents is important to most second homeowners. Second home contents insurance will take into account the risks associated with leaving a property unoccupied for longer periods.  

It can also cover the risks that people renting your second home may pose including accidental damage, like knocking over and smashing expensive decor.  

Landlords insurance

If you let your second home to longer-term tenants or lodgers, then landlord’s insurance may be needed. This cover can include add-ons such as home emergency cover, rental protection , liability, and legal expense cover.  

Insurance for a holiday home

If you rent out your property as a holiday home, insurers will need to know this to avoid your coverage being potentially invalidated. Flexible insurance for a holiday home can also cater to holiday homes outside of the UK. 

Unoccupied home insurance

Second homes that are left empty for extended periods will need unoccupied home insurance. This has longer allowances than standard home insurance which typically only allows a property to be unoccupied for 30-60 days at a time. 

How much is second home insurance in the UK?

The cost of insuring a second home is specific to each property and its insurance needs. You can quickly and easily get quotes for insuring your second home at Quotezone. We help you compare up to 40 UK home insurers in minutes, so you can be sure you are not overpaying unnecessarily.  

Factors affecting second home insurance costs

The cost of second home insurance depends on several factors. 

  • The property type and size 
  • The property’s location 
  • Your claims history  
  • The types and levels of coverage you choose 
  • The frequency and length of occupancy 
  • The value of rebuilding your home and replacing its contents 
  • If the home is rented out 
  • If your property is under construction 
  • Security features of the home 
  • Your claims history 

Tips for getting cheap home insurance for a second home

he key to finding cheaper home insurance for a second home is to weigh the factors that affect your premium in your favour where possible. This can involve: 

  • Installing additional security features 
  • Getting accurate rebuild and contents costs so you aren’t over-insuring 
  • Avoiding any additional coverage options you don’t need 
  • Practicing good home maintenance to avoid unnecessary claims 
  • Opting for a higher voluntary excess 
  • Bundle your insurance where possible  
  • Compare quotes from multiple insurers before you buy 

Second home insurance FAQs

What happens to your insurance when you buy a second home?

When you purchase a second home, it’s important to inform your primary home insurer. While you’ll need a separate second home house insurance policy, your main home’s policy may also need to be adjusted if you split your time between both residences. Some insurers could even offer you a discount for bundling policies, so always check for potential savings. 

Do I need second home insurance?

It is strongly recommended that you have appropriate second home buildings and contents insurance in place as it is incredibly risky to not protect this valuable asset. Although it is not a legal requirement, a mortgage provider or lender will likely require you to have cover in place.  

Where can I find second home insurance?

Many insurers offer second home insurance. However, not all policies are the same, so it’s very important to shop around before you commit to a policy. Our platform can help you source and compare second home insurance quotes from a wide range of insurers, increasing your chances of securing a good deal.  

Can you get insurance coverage for a vacant second home?

Yes, vacant home insurance policies are available specifically for second homes and holiday homes. These policies are more flexible and can cover risks that standard home insurance policies typically exclude. 

What exclusions should you be aware of on home insurance?

Common exclusions on any home insurance policy can include wear and tear, damage from lack of maintenance, and gradual issues like mould. Each policy can be slightly different, so always review the policy terms to understand what is and isn’t covered. 

How do I insure a second home outside of the UK?

Insuring a second home abroad requires working with insurers that offer international home insurance coverage. When you compare policies with Quotezone, we only match you with insurers who can meet your needs, so you don’t waste any time. 

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Elaine

Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom

My home insurance had double in one year. I had been with this insurance company for over 20 years, and never claimed. Yet I was given no good reason for the increase, but that the cost of things were going up. I managed to get a better cover for a lot less then 50% of my new quote.

Parveez

United Kingdom

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