Insuring a Home in an Estate

The existing policy

A homeowners policy does not end automatically when the named insured dies. Many standard forms continue to protect the deceased's legal representative and the property for a period, subject to the policy's terms. Contact the insurer promptly, report the death and ask how coverage continues, who the insurer will treat as insured, and what it needs from the executor.

Keep the premium paid

If payments were made automatically from the deceased person's bank account, they may stop when the account is frozen. A lapse for non-payment can leave the house uninsured. Ask the insurer how to keep the policy current while the estate is open.

Occupancy changes everything

Homeowners policies are written for occupied homes. If no one lives in the house, the policy's vacancy or unoccupancy provisions may limit coverage for losses such as vandalism, glass breakage or water damage. Tell the insurer who, if anyone, lives in the home.

Common options

• Continuing the existing homeowners policy with the insurer's agreement
• Adding a vacancy permit or endorsement
• A vacant home or dwelling fire policy
• A landlord policy if the home will be rented
• A new homeowners policy if an heir moves in

Contents and valuables

Furniture, jewelry, art and other belongings inside the house are part of the estate too. Photograph the contents, remove small valuables to a safe place and ask whether the policy still covers personal property in an empty house.

Estate home topics

Frequently asked questions