An unoccupied home and your insurer
Many Dutch building and contents insurance policies contain vacancy clauses: if a home stands empty beyond a set period, cover can be restricted or strict conditions apply — such as periodic inspection, draining pipes, or active supervision. Conditions differ by insurer and policy. Therefore, always check your own policy terms or discuss with your insurance advisor.
What to check in your policy
Before assuming your empty home remains fully covered, review your policy terms. Keep a close record of these three key details:
- Occupancy period: The exact number of consecutive days a property may stand empty before the unoccupied clause takes effect.
- Inspection interval: How frequently the property must be checked by a person who can provide written proof of the checks.
- Precautions required: Mandatory actions such as shutting off the main water valve, draining pipes during winter, or keeping heating on a minimum temperature.
What insurers typically ask
While policies differ, insurers generally expect demonstrable steps to protect the property and prevent minor issues from becoming major claims. They typically look for:
- Periodic documented checks of the building's exterior and interior.
- Precautions taken against freezing temperatures and water leaks.
- Prompt response to damage caused by storms, leaks, or break-ins.
- Demonstrable proof that the home is under regular oversight.
How Residence Watch answers this
Within our local service region in the Netherlands, Meijer Residential provides the periodic, documented oversight that insurers expect to see:
- Written reporting: Every visit is logged and you receive a clear report with dated photographs of key areas.
- Local keyholder: A professional and technically qualified local contact for your insurer, trades, and emergency services.
- Immediate response: We inspect the home immediately after storms or extreme weather to prevent damage from escalating.
- Key custody and access: We can grant access on your behalf to suppliers, contractors, or insurance inspectors.
This page is general information, not formal insurance advice. Your policy terms prevail.