Why Temporary Closure Is a High-Risk Period for Guest Houses

Guest houses are often required to close temporarily due to refurbishment, renovation, seasonal shutdowns, change of ownership, regulatory works or unexpected damage. During periods of closure, standard guest house insurance policies may restrict or exclude cover.

Vacant or partially occupied properties are statistically more vulnerable to fire, water damage, vandalism, theft and malicious acts. Refurbishment works can also introduce new risks such as hot works, contractor activity and structural alterations.

Insure24 arranges specialist temporary closure and refurbishment insurance for guest houses, ensuring your property remains protected even when you are not trading.

What Does Temporary Closure & Refurbishment Insurance Cover?

Buildings Insurance During Closure

Covers the guest house structure while unoccupied or partially occupied, protecting against fire, flood, storm, escape of water and vandalism.

Refurbishment & Renovation Works

Covers damage arising from non-structural refurbishment works, subject to policy limits and declared scope of works.

Theft & Malicious Damage

Protects against increased risk of theft, arson and vandalism when a property is empty or closed to the public.

Public & Contractors’ Liability

Covers injury or property damage claims arising from contractor activity, visitors or third parties during refurbishment works.

Business Interruption (Where Applicable)

In some cases, loss of income following insured damage can be included, depending on the nature and length of closure.

Unoccupied vs Refurbishment Insurance – What’s the Difference?

Unoccupied property insurance focuses on protecting a vacant building, while refurbishment insurance considers the additional risks introduced by contractors and works being carried out.

Guest houses undergoing refurbishment often require a hybrid approach, combining unoccupied property terms with refurbishment and liability extensions.

Common Insurance Problems During Guest House Closure

• Cover voided due to non-disclosure of vacancy
• Standard policies excluding refurbishment works
• Uninsured damage caused by contractors
• Failure to meet security or inspection conditions
• Claims declined due to breach of occupancy terms

Insure24 ensures insurers are fully aware of closure and works to avoid claim disputes.

How Much Does Temporary Closure Insurance Cost?

Premiums depend on factors such as:

• Length of closure
• Extent and value of refurbishment works
• Security measures and inspections
• Property construction and location
• Claims history

Specialist insurers can often provide short-term or flexible policies aligned to your project timeline.