Your second home faces the same risks as your primary residence, from fire and water damage to theft. Comprehensive home insurance is essential for protection and peace of mind. Here's how to secure the right coverage and key guarantees to include.
A second home is a property owned by someone with a primary residence. While the law doesn't mandate insurance for it, experts strongly recommend it. Even unoccupied, it's vulnerable to burglary, theft, and vandalism—risks that escalate in isolated or large properties, leading to costly damage.
Choose a policy that provides compensation after a claim. If rented, tenants must carry civil liability coverage by law and may add rental risk protection. Should they lack it, owners can opt for non-occupant owner insurance, passing costs to rent.
Protect your second home by extending your multi-risk primary policy or getting dedicated coverage. Extending is simplest—no new contract needed. Contact your insurer to select relevant add-ons, then amend the policy, typically within days.
Expect a premium increase, as insuring two homes raises risks, especially with periods of vacancy that heighten theft and vandalism threats.
Dedicated policies offer tailored protection. Prioritize property damage coverage for fire, water, or snow. Theft protection is critical, as second homes attract burglars—insurers may require locks or alarms.
Watch for uninhabited clauses excluding claims after 60-90 days vacant; ensure your policy waives this. Skip civil liability, as it's already in your primary policy.
