Yes, you can insure a house going through probate. In fact, it’s often necessary to protect the property during this period. Let’s explore the ins and outs of probate house insurance.
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Can You Insure a House Going Through Probate?
Probate house insurance is a special type of cover designed for properties in the probate process. It protects the property while ownership is being transferred after someone’s death.
This insurance is vital because standard home policies often become invalid if a property is left empty for more than 30 days. During probate, houses can be vacant for months.
Why You Need Probate House Insurance?
There are several reasons why probate house insurance is important:
- Legal requirement: Executors have a duty to protect the estate’s assets.
- Protection from risks: Empty houses are more vulnerable to theft, vandalism, and damage.
- Peace of mind: It reduces stress for those handling the estate.
- Financial safeguard: It prevents potential losses that could reduce the estate’s value.
Types of Cover Available
Probate house insurance typically offers two levels of cover:
| Cover Type | What It Includes |
|---|---|
| Basic | Fire, lightning, explosion, earthquake (FLEEA) |
| Comprehensive | FLEEA plus theft, vandalism, water damage, etc. |
The right choice depends on the property’s condition and how long it will be empty.
How to Get Probate House Insurance?
To arrange probate house insurance:
- Contact specialist insurers or brokers
- Provide details about the property and its contents
- Choose the level of cover you need
- Agree on the policy length (often flexible, from 3 to 12 months)
- Set up regular property inspections (usually required by insurers)
Tip: Some insurers offer pro-rata cancellation, which can save money if probate is completed earlier than expected.
Who is responsible for insuring the property?
The executor or administrator of the estate is usually responsible for arranging insurance.
What if the property is already insured?
Inform the current insurer about the death. They may extend cover for a short period, but you’ll likely need a new policy soon.
Can beneficiaries insure the property?
Typically, only those with an ‘insurable interest’ can take out a policy. This usually means the executor or administrator until probate is granted.
How much does probate house insurance cost?
Costs vary based on the property value, location, and level of cover. It’s often more expensive than standard home insurance due to the increased risks.
Sell Your Inherited Property to Property Saviour
When it comes to selling an inherited property, Property Saviour offers a hassle-free solution that takes care of many of the complexities, including insurance. As cash buyers, we can complete the purchase in as little as 10 days, providing a swift and certain sale for executors and beneficiaries. This speed can be particularly beneficial when dealing with probate properties, which often require ongoing management and insurance.
By choosing to sell to Property Saviour, you won’t need to worry about arranging insurance for the inherited property during the sales process. We’ll handle this aspect, ensuring the property is properly protected from the moment we agree on the sale. This can save you time, money and stress, allowing you to focus on other matters related to the estate.
Plus, with our guaranteed price promise, you can be confident that the offer we make is the amount you’ll receive, with no last-minute reductions or surprises.
Property Saviour Price Promise
- The price we’ll offer is the price that you will receive with no hidden deductions.
- Be careful with ‘cash buyers’ who require a valuation needed for a mortgage or bridging loan.
- These valuations or surveys result in delays and price reductions later on.
- We are cash buyers. There are no surveys.
- We always provide proof of funds with every formal offer issued.
We'll Pay £1,500 Towards Your Legal Fees
- No long exclusivity agreement to sign because we are the buyers.
- You are welcome to use your own solicitor.
- If you don’t have one, we can ask our solicitors for recommendations.
- We share our solicitor’s details and issue a Memorandum of Sale.
Sell With Certainty & Speed
- Our approach is transparent and ethical, which is why sellers trust us.
- 100% Discretion guaranteed.
- If you have another buyer, you can put us in a contracts race to see who completes first.
- Complete in 10 days or at a timescale that works for you. You are in control.
