Probate House Insurance (Inherited Property Cover)

What is probate house insurance?

When someone passes away and leaves a property, that property becomes part of their estate until it is distributed according to their will or the rules of intestacy. During this period, the property still needs insurance. Probate house insurance is designed for this situation, providing cover while the estate is being administered.

The term "probate" refers to the legal process of dealing with someone's estate after they die. For properties, this can take several months or sometimes years. Throughout this time, the building remains at risk from the usual perils: fire, flood, storm damage, theft, and vandalism. Appropriate cover helps protect the asset for the benefit of the estate and its beneficiaries.

Who is probate house insurance for?

If you've been named as an executor in a will, or appointed as an administrator where there's no will, you have a legal duty to protect the estate's assets. This includes ensuring properties remain adequately insured. The responsibility begins from the date of death, not from when probate is granted.

Common situations

• Executors managing a deceased relative's property during probate
• Administrators handling an estate where there was no valid will
• Beneficiaries who will inherit the property but cannot take ownership until probate completes
• Family members living in the property while the estate is settled
• Properties being prepared for sale as part of estate distribution

If the property will remain empty for an extended period, you may also need to consider unoccupied property insurance, as standard policies often have limits on how long a home can sit empty.

Once probate is complete, the property may be sold, kept as a second home, or let to tenants. If the property will be rented out, you would need landlord insurance rather than probate cover at that point.

What happens to existing home insurance after death?

One of the first practical steps after a bereavement is to check whether the deceased had home insurance in place. Policies don't automatically transfer to the estate, and arrangements vary between insurers.

Steps to take

• Locate the existing policy documents among the deceased's papers
• Contact the insurer to notify them of the death and your role
• Ask whether the policy can continue in the name of the estate
• Understand any conditions that now apply, especially regarding occupancy
• Note the renewal date and any time limits on continued cover

Some insurers allow the existing policy to continue for a period, often until its renewal date, while others may require a new policy immediately. If the property will become unoccupied, the existing policy may not provide full cover, even if it technically remains in force.

What does probate house insurance cover?

Probate property insurance typically offers similar protection to standard home insurance, but with terms suited to estate administration. Cover can include buildings, contents, or both.

Buildings cover

This protects the structure of the property against damage from fire, flood, storm, subsidence, and other insured perils. Buildings cover is usually based on the rebuild cost, not the market value.

Contents cover

If the deceased's belongings remain in the property, contents cover protects against theft, damage, or destruction. Valuing contents in a probate property can be challenging, especially if items need to be inventoried for estate purposes.

Additional considerations

Depending on the property and circumstances, you may also want to consider public liability cover (if anyone visits the property), legal expenses, or specific cover for high-value items. If the property is a listed building, specialist cover may be needed.

What affects the cost of probate house insurance?

Several factors influence what cover is available and at what price. Understanding these can help you provide accurate information when seeking quotes.

Occupancy status

Whether the property is occupied or empty significantly affects insurance options. Occupied properties typically have more straightforward cover available. Empty properties carry higher risks and may need specialist unoccupied home insurance.

Property condition

The state of repair matters. If the property has been neglected or has existing issues like damp or structural problems, this can affect availability and terms. Insurers may ask about the property's condition and any known defects.

Security measures

Empty properties are more vulnerable to break-ins and vandalism. Insurers often require certain security standards to be met, particularly for unoccupied properties. This might include specific lock types, burglar alarms, or regular inspections.

Duration needed

Probate can be straightforward or complex, affecting how long cover is needed. Some properties sell quickly; others remain in the estate for extended periods. Insurers may offer annual policies or shorter terms depending on your situation.

Practical considerations for probate properties

Managing a property during probate involves more than just arranging insurance. Being aware of these related matters can help you fulfil your responsibilities as executor or administrator.

Regular inspections

If the property is unoccupied, insurers typically require regular visits, often weekly or fortnightly. These inspections help identify problems early, such as leaks, break-ins, or weather damage. Keep records of your visits.

Utility management

Deciding what to do with utilities requires balancing costs against property protection. In winter, some heating may be needed to prevent frozen pipes. Alternatively, water systems can be drained down. Check what your insurer requires.

Mail and deliveries

A build-up of post can signal an empty property to opportunistic burglars. Consider mail redirection or regular collection. This is also practical for managing estate correspondence.

Garden and exterior

Maintaining the property's exterior helps it appear occupied and cared for. Overgrown gardens can attract negative attention and may affect relations with neighbours. Some insurance policies include conditions about property maintenance.

Payment options during probate

Paying for insurance during probate can be complicated if estate funds are not yet accessible. Some executors pay initially from their own funds and reclaim from the estate later. Others use estate bank accounts once these are set up. Monthly payment options may help spread costs if available. Keep all receipts for estate accounting purposes.

Probate house insurance FAQs