Who pays house insurance during probate?

During probate, the responsibility for paying house insurance typically falls to the estate of the deceased. The executor or administrator of the estate is responsible for ensuring that the property remains insured throughout the probate process. Funds from the estate can be used by the executor to pay for the insurance that is needed. Maintaining insurance on the property is important during probate to protect it from risks such as theft, vandalism, or damage. If the property is uninsured and something happens, it could reduce the value of the estate and affect the inheritance of the beneficiaries. We provide cover for a variety of properties and specific situations, and we are happy to help you through the process of obtaining the correct insurance coverage.

What does probate mean?

Probate is the legal process of managing and distributing a deceased person's estate, including assets like properties, money, and possessions. The executor named in the will, or the closest relatives if no will exists, may need to apply for a grant of probate or letter of administration to legally handle the estate, pay debts, taxes, and insurances, and distribute assets according to the will or state laws. Understanding probate, in relation to the legal process of administering and distributing a deceased person’s estate, can be complex and time-consuming, often requiring legal assistance. We have a comprehensive guide to help you understand property insurance after the owner’s death , outlining what steps to take with your insurance in this situation.

An executor is the person named in a will to manage and distribute the deceased's estate. Their duties include gathering assets, paying debts and taxes, and ensuring the remaining assets go to the beneficiaries as specified in the will. They gain legal authority to do this after obtaining a Grant of Probate.

How much does probate home insurance cost?

The cost of probate insurance can vary depending on a range factors like property value, location, condition, level of cover, and any add-on policies you may need. The most important factors that will impact the cost is if the property is unoccupied; unoccupied property insurance is more expensive than standard home insurance. The exact cost of a policy can really vary, so it’s best to get a tailored quote from an insurance provider.

Do I need executor insurance or probate home insurance?

Probate home insurance is essentially the same as executor insurance. They are important for safeguarding properties during the probate process, especially if it will be unoccupied. We can walk you through your specific requirements and discuss which cover might be suitable for your situation.

How long should I take out the cover for?

The duration of probate insurance should match the length of time the property will be in probate. Typically, probate can take several months to over a year, so we would suggest to take out cover for at least this period. You can extend the cover if needed, depending on how long the probate process may take. It's always advisable to discuss this with us so we can recommend a solution that works best for you and your situation.

Can the existing home insurance remain in force?

If the deceased had household insurance, this existing policy may allow for a certain period of unoccupied cover, so it could be worth checking this.

Probate House Insurance | Insurance during the probate process

Name: Probate House Insurance
Brand: Alan Boswell Group
Rating: 4.8 (11212 reviews)

Our probate house insurance is specifically designed for those managing an estate during the probate process, safeguarding against common risks like break-ins, water leaks, liability issues, theft, and vandalism, giving you peace of mind throughout the probate process. We ensure your vacant property is protected and our team is here to help you with any questions you may have regarding your property and cover.

The Alan Boswell Group Difference

We know that, like our customers, no two houses are ever the same. That’s why we’ll listen to your needs and offer advice tailored to you, so you have the right cover.

We can provide expert guidance on buildings and contents valuations and any specific situation such as probate and executor house insurance, and with access to a wide panel of insurance partners we can ensure you have the right policy tailored to your individual requirements.

The process was simple, guidance excellent, and communication clear. Overall, exemplary service.

Mr Calierno - Household Insurance

4.8/5 11212 reviews

Probate house insurance in detail

Contents insurance

Protects against damage or theft of contents within your property.

Property owners' liability

This covers costs or damages awarded to a third party for injury or damage sustained on or related to your property (e.g. a postman slipping on an unsafe path on your property).

Property damage

Provides cover for property damage, including damage caused by fire, flood, storm, escape of water, or subsidence.

Unoccupied properties during probate will be required to be visited once every 7-14 days (depending on the insurer). Most insurers will have minimum security requirements which must be met to keep the property secure. Heating must be on from 1st October to 31st March or the heating system must be drained for unoccupied properties.