A home that is closed for part of the year can, and should, be properly insured, but the insurer needs to know it will be empty. Most policies have specific rules for unoccupied homes: some covers, such as theft or escape of water, may be restricted after a certain number of days with nobody there. The best protection combines three things: declaring the real use, meeting the policy conditions and arranging regular visits to the property.

Why an empty home is a different risk

When nobody is at home, a small problem can become a big one. A leak that would be spotted in minutes can run for weeks. A roof tile lifted by a storm lets rain in until someone notices. And a house that is visibly empty is more likely to attract break-ins.

Insurers know this, which is why the proposal form asks whether the house is your main or second home, and how long it stays empty.

What policies usually require

The rules vary a lot, so I will speak in general terms. Many policies contain unoccupancy clauses (cláusulas de desocupação or inabitabilidade) with effects such as:

After a certain number of consecutive days unoccupied (the period depends on the policy), some covers stop applying or have tighter limits: often theft, escape of water and glass breakage.
You may be required to turn off the water at the stopcock when you leave, or to switch off certain appliances.
There may be mandatory security measures, such as an armed alarm, security doors or specific locks, especially for higher-value homes.
Valuables left in an empty house may have their own limits or need to be kept in a safe.

These are not small print to skip: if they are not met, the insurer may decline or reduce a claim. That is why I go through them with you before you sign and choose a policy designed for second homes.

Declare the real use, and any changes

Above all, the policy must reflect reality. If it is a holiday home, it should be insured as a second home from day one. If things change during the policy (say, a house you lived in full time is now closed for months at a time), that may count as an increase in risk (agravamento do risco).

Portuguese insurance contract law requires the policyholder to tell the insurer about circumstances that increase the risk within 14 days of becoming aware of them. Failing to do so can affect a claim. If you are unsure whether a change counts, ask me: that is what I am here for.

Regular visits: protection insurance cannot replace

Insurance pays for damage; it does not prevent it. With an empty home, prevention makes all the difference:

Regular visits to check for leaks, damp, doors and windows, and signs of intrusion.
Inspections after storms or heavy rain: the sooner damage is found, the smaller it stays.
Dated records: photos and reports from each visit are extremely helpful in a claim, because they show the condition of the house and when the problem began.
Preventive maintenance: clearing gutters, checking the roof, pool and garden before winter.

For clients in the Algarve who live abroad, I work in partnership with Casa ProCare, a property care and house-sitting service: inspections with photo reports, arrival and departure preparation, key holding and documenting damage after storms. When something happens, having someone on site who records everything straight away makes the claim far smoother.

Whatever you choose (a trusted neighbour, a family member or a professional service) what matters is that visits are regular and recorded, and that the person knows what to do and whom to call if they find a problem.

Simple steps before you lock up

Turn off the water and, if your policy requires it, the gas.
Set the alarm and check the alert contact details are up to date.
Put away garden furniture and anything the wind could carry off.
Take valuables with you or lock them in a safe.
Leave a copy of the policy and my contact details with your key holder.

Frequently asked questions about unoccupied home insurance

Does a holiday home cost more to insure?

Often, yes, because the risk is different. But the difference depends on the policy, the location and the security in place. A home with an alarm and regular visits is viewed differently.

How many days can the house stay empty?

There is no single answer: each policy sets its own period. That is why it is essential to read that clause and choose a policy that fits the way you use the house.

If I let the house while I am away, is my insurance still valid?

Letting changes the use and must be declared. If it is a holiday let (alojamento local), there is also compulsory liability insurance required by law.

If your home is closed for part of the year, I will review your policy with no obligation and check the conditions match the way you use it: request your review here.

Sources

General information only. It does not replace reading your policy conditions or personalised advice.