When a property owner passes away, the existing home insurance policy doesn’t suddenly become void but according to insurance experts, Everywhen, because the circumstances surrounding the property have changed, the policy will need to be updated to avoid leaving unexpected gaps in cover.
Someone will need to act as a representative of the policyholder and contact the insurer to tell them about the owner’s death. The insurer can then talk them through the options and help keep the property properly protected.
James Cooper, Trading Director at Everywhen says: “The executor is legally responsible for managing the deceased person’s estate throughout the probate process, including any property that’s in the estate. Responsibilities may vary depending on the situation, but typically executors need to check if the existing insurance policy is still suitable and comply with any conditions that the insurer requires, if the property is going to be empty for any significant period.
“The executor must also make sure that the property has the appropriate insurance until it’s sold or ownership is transferred to the new owner.”
Inform the insurer of a property owner’s death
“It is important that the insurer is informed when a property owner dies. If nobody tells the insurer, there could be gaps in cover. For example, some policies include restrictions for certain risks if a property has been empt