Phone: 204-771-0198

The Difference Between a Vacant Home and an Unoccupied Home

It is clearly understood that whenever a home is empty, it poses a much greater risk for damage, particularly water damage. With nobody home to take action or call an emergency provider, the longer the home is unattended, the greater the level of damage.  Home insurance companies have varying guidelines regarding how long a house can be empty before the insurance coverage is voided or alternatively, a special endorsement is needed.  Here are some guidelines on the difference between a vacant home and an unoccupied home,

An unoccupied home is generally ready for occupation.  The utilities are  functioning and the owner’s furnishings and personal property remain inside.  If the home is undergoing extensive renovations but the furnishings and personal effects can remain in the home, then the home is unoccupied.  as well, if the homeowner is on vacation or in the hospital, your home is considered unoccupied.

A vacant home is one where the owners have no personal property and the home is clearly vacant. The utilities may be turned off and in its present state, the home is uninhabitable.  A vacant home is often the case when a homeowner has moved to  a new residence and awaiting the a sale of their previous residence.  Or in rental properties after one tenant has moved and a new tenant has not taken possession.  Vacant homes  present significantly higher risk and special precautions should be taken to mitigate this risk. Advising your insurance provider of the status of your home, whether unoccupied or vacant is a prudent first step.

RECENT POSTS

How Long Does a Hot Water Heater Last?

Two appliances that are the most common problem for homeowners who are away for an extended period of time are the furnace and the hot water tank.  They both seem to cause problems during the most inconvenient time.  Let's deal with the hot water tank first. It's good...

Testimonials are Satisfying

I never ask for testimonials, but when they are recieved unsolicited, it certainly is satisfying.  We  try to treat our client's homes like it was our own.  The trust people put into our hands is acknowledged and we want to ensure their time away from home is...

Furnace Issues in Extreme Cold

Most homeowners have upgraded their furnaces to high efficiency models.  These typically come with an exhaust exit pipe at the side of the house. During winter with an abundance of snow and very cold temperatures, this exhaust pipe can be buried in snow or severly...

Travel – Nashville

Since most clients use Winnipeg Home Check services while they are away travelling, I thought I would provide some of my travel experiences. I recently spent some time in Nashville.  Here are my observations: Nashville on a Saturday night. This isn’t you...

we got you covered

Thinking about a summer vacation or going to the cottage? We got you covered. We can check your home while you're away, mow your lawn, water your garden and even take care of your hot tub / pool maintenance. You can leave your home with peace of mind that everything...

Pin It on Pinterest