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Vacant Home Insurance

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Vacant Home Insurance: Protection for Empty Properties

The “Risk Reality”: The Vandalism Magnet

An empty house is a magnet for trouble. Without a daily presence, small issues like a pipe leak can turn into black mold disasters, and the property becomes a prime target for squatters, theft, and vandalism. The Insurance Information Institute notes that vacant properties suffer disproportionately from “Vandalism and Malicious Mischief” (VMM) and arson claims. Because the risk of total loss is so much higher, insurance carriers require a specific policy structure (often a DP-1 or specialized form) to cover these heightened hazards.

Vacant Home Insurance Coverage

We structure policies to cover the specific risks of an unoccupied building, from broken windows to liability.

What is Covered

Named Perils: Typically covers “Basic” perils like fire, lightning, wind, hail, and explosion.

Vandalism (VMM): Often an optional but essential add-on, covering damage caused by trespassers or squatters (e.g., graffiti, smashed walls).

Premises Liability: Protects you if a trespasser or a real estate agent is injured on the property (e.g., tripping on a loose step).

Agreed Value: In the event of a total loss, the policy pays a pre-set amount, ensuring clarity during a sale or renovation.

What is NOT Covered (Exclusions)

Theft of Contents: Since a vacant home should be empty, these policies rarely cover personal property left behind.

Water Damage: Burst pipes are frequently excluded unless you have proof of specific winterization measures.

The “Dream” Difference: Standard vs. Comprehensive

Most direct quotes only cover the basics in the left column. We shop multiple carriers to secure the critical add-ons in the right column that actually protect your livelihood.

Risk Area	Standard Homeowners (HO-3)	DAG Vacant Home Policy
Vacancy > 60 Days	✖ Coverage Voided	✔ Fully Covered
Vandalism/Graffiti	✖ Excluded if Vacant	✔ Available (Endorsement)
Renovation Risk	✖ Limited/Excluded	✔ Available (Builder’s Risk)
Flexible Terms	✖ 12-Month Contract	✔ 3, 6, or 12 Months

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Vacant Home Insurance Cost

“How much does vacant home insurance cost?” Because the risk is higher, premiums are typically 50% to 60% higher than a standard homeowners policy, but they can be purchased for shorter terms.

Cost Estimates: Industry market data suggests premiums often range from $500 to $1,000 for a 6-month policy term, depending on the home’s value and location.
Pro-Rated Refunds: The best feature of these policies is flexibility. If you sell the house in 3 months, you can cancel the policy and typically receive a pro-rated refund for the unused time.
Renovation Surcharges: If the home is undergoing major structural renovations, you may need a “Vacant Under Renovation” policy, which carries a slight surcharge for the construction risk.

The “Independent Difference”: Why Dream Assurance?

Selling a home or managing an estate is stressful enough. We handle the compliance so you can focus on the sale. “Independent Means Multiple Choices.”

Speed of Issue: We can often get a policy bound and a binder sent to your closing attorney or lender within hours, preventing delays in your real estate transaction.
Short-Term Options: We access specialty markets that offer 3-month or 6-month policies, so you aren’t locked into a year-long contract for a house you plan to sell.
Agent Advocacy: Our team helps you determine exactly when to switch from Homeowners to Vacant coverage to ensure you never have a gap in protection.

Experience the confidence shared by the professionals we protect, and let us turn these options into a clear, comprehensive protection plan for you.

Dream Assurance

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Based on 158 reviews

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Leslie Franke

17:49 13 Apr 26

Addison was great he was able to match me with the exact insurance policy that I needed at a cost I can afford!!!

Alex D

13:49 07 Apr 26

The insight was unmatched by any other insurance company. I’ll be using them for all my insurance needs.

G Clark

16:19 04 Apr 26

I’ve had a fantastic experience with Dream Assurance. From the very beginning, Kurtis made the process of choosing a plan straightforward and stress-free.

Robert Anderson

20:36 23 Mar 26

If you’re looking for real people that handles your needs fast then dream assurance is the way to go. Micheal Moran is probably the best insurance agent I’ve ever had. No matter the time or day, he finds a way to respond back. Not to mention we’re in two different time zones and he works like we’re in the same state. I wish I could give them more stars. Forgot to mention they’ll beat any insurance rates you find!!!

Ready to protect your property? Let our agents shop 30+ carriers for you. Get a Free Quote.
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Frequently Asked Questions

When is a home considered “vacant”?

Most insurance carriers consider a home vacant if it has been unoccupied (no residents) and substantially empty of personal property (furniture) for more than 30 or 60 days. Check your specific policy declarations.

Can I get insurance for a house under renovation?

Yes, this is often called “Builder’s Risk” or “Vacant Under Renovation” coverage. It covers the structure and the building materials on-site against theft or damage during the construction process.

Why is vacant home insurance so expensive?

It comes down to risk. Without residents present to deter burglars or catch fires/leaks early, the likelihood of a “total loss” claim is statistically much higher, forcing carriers to charge higher premiums.

Will I get money back if I sell the house early?

Yes. Most vacant home policies allow for pro-rated cancellations. If you buy a 12-month policy but sell the home in 4 months, you typically receive a refund for the remaining 8 months of premium.

Does it cover squatters?

It depends. The policy covers the *damage* squatters cause (vandalism, fire), but it usually does not cover the legal costs to evict them. You need to ensure “Vandalism and Malicious Mischief” is included in your policy.

Coverage Guidance That Meets You Where You Are

Headquartered in Overland Park, KS and serving clients across multiple states, our team provides straightforward guidance to help you make informed insurance decisions.

If you’re comparing insurance options or reassessing your current coverage, we’ll help you evaluate what you have, identify potential gaps, and find a path forward that makes sense for your situation.