When a loved one passes away, managing their property becomes a key responsibility during probate. One of the most important tasks is ensuring that the home is properly insured while legal matters are being resolved.
Since probate properties often remain unoccupied, they face higher risks of damage or theft, making specialist cover essential. Read on to discover the best ways to find reputable insurers for probate properties and secure reliable protection.
Start by Researching Specialist Insurers
The first step in finding a trustworthy provider is to focus on insurers that specialise in non-standard home insurance.
Probate homes are often vacant, and standard policies rarely cover empty properties beyond a short period. Specialist insurers, however, understand these risks and can tailor policies to your exact needs.
Look for insurers who clearly mention experience with unoccupied or probate homes on their websites. This usually signals that they’re familiar with the legal and practical issues that come with managing an estate property.
Compare Policies for Probate Property Insurance
When looking for probate property insurance, it’s worth comparing more than just price. Focus on what’s actually included in each policy. Reputable insurers will offer clear details about what’s covered, such as fire, flood, vandalism, or accidental damage, even if the home is unoccupied.
They’ll also explain inspection requirements, as many insurers ask that someone visits the property regularly to keep the cover valid. A well-structured policy should give you flexibility and clear conditions, so you’re never left uncertain about your responsibilities.
Check Authorisation and Regulation
Always make sure the insurer is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This ensures that they follow UK financial rules and consumer protection standards.
You can verify this on the FCA register, which lists all approved insurance companies operating in the UK.
Better Safe than Sorry
Avoid dealing with firms that can’t show their registration details or those offering cover through vague or unverified channels.
Regulation gives you assurance that your chosen insurer meets strict financial and ethical requirements.
Review Customer Feedback and Ratings
Reading reviews is one of the easiest ways to assess an insurer’s reputation. Independent platforms often provide insights into how insurers handle claims, communication, and renewals.
Consistent positive feedback is a strong sign of reliability, while repeated complaints about poor claims handling or unclear policies are red flags.
When checking reviews, pay attention to how the company responds to criticism. Professional and helpful replies often reflect strong customer support and transparency, two qualities you want when insuring a probate property.
Seek Recommendations from Trusted Sources
If you’re unsure where to start, seek advice from professionals involved in the probate process, such as solicitors, estate agents, or financial advisers. They often work with insurers who specialise in unoccupied or estate properties and can suggest companies with proven reliability.
Friends or family who’ve gone through similar experiences may also offer valuable insights. First-hand recommendations can help you avoid unreliable providers and save time in your search.
Final Remarks
Finding a reputable insurer for a probate property isn’t something to rush. Taking time to research, compare, and verify your options ensures that the estate stays protected and compliant with legal requirements.
By focusing on regulated specialists, checking reviews, and seeking flexible cover, you’ll make a confident choice that safeguards both the home and its value.
For more, visit Pure Magazine