Unoccupied & Closed-for-Refurbishment Insurance for Pubs

Specialist cover for pubs that are temporarily closed, vacant, between tenants or undergoing refurbishment works.

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We compare quotes from leading UK insurers

  • Allianz
  • Aviva
  • QBE
  • RSA
  • Zurich
  • NIG

Why Standard Pub Insurance Fails When a Pub Is Closed

Most standard pub insurance policies automatically restrict or invalidate cover once a premises becomes unoccupied or closed for a defined period, often as little as 30 consecutive days.

Pubs that are temporarily closed for refurbishment, awaiting sale, between tenants or shut due to financial or licensing reasons face significantly increased risk of fire, theft, vandalism and escape of water.

Unoccupied & Closed-for-Refurbishment Insurance ensures your pub building and contents remain protected during periods when normal trading has stopped.

What Unoccupied Pub Insurance Covers

  • Fire, lightning and explosion
  • Theft and attempted theft
  • Malicious damage and vandalism
  • Escape of water from burst pipes
  • Storm and weather damage
  • Public liability (restricted but available)

Cover is tailored specifically to unoccupied risk, with conditions reflecting reduced supervision and increased exposure.

Insurance During Pub Refurbishment Works

Refurbishment introduces additional risks beyond vacancy. Hot works, electrical alterations, structural changes and contractor activity significantly increase the likelihood of serious claims.

  • Fire risk from hot works
  • Theft of materials and equipment
  • Damage to existing structure
  • Public injury during works

Insurance must reflect the scope and value of works being undertaken, not just the unoccupied status.

Common Scenarios Requiring Unoccupied Pub Cover

  • Pubs closed for refurbishment or rebranding
  • Vacant premises awaiting sale or lease
  • Between tenants or management change
  • Temporary closure due to licensing issues
  • Seasonal or extended shutdowns

Each scenario requires accurate disclosure to ensure valid cover.

Typical Conditions of Unoccupied Pub Insurance

Insurers impose additional conditions to reduce risk while premises are unoccupied.

  • Regular inspections (often weekly)
  • Isolation and draining of water systems
  • Secure locks and boarded access points
  • Fire alarms and intruder alarms maintained
  • No overnight occupation without approval

Failure to comply with conditions can invalidate claims.

Public Liability for Unoccupied Pubs

Even when closed, pub owners still owe a duty of care to trespassers, contractors and members of the public.

Public liability cover during vacancy is usually restricted, but it remains essential, particularly during refurbishment.

Why Choose Insure24

  • Specialists in unoccupied pub insurance
  • Advice on vacancy conditions and compliance
  • Cover aligned to refurbishment works
  • Access to insurers comfortable with empty premises
  • Support if claims arise during closure
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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When is a pub classed as unoccupied by insurers?

Typically after 30 consecutive days without trading or overnight occupation, though this varies by insurer.

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Does standard pub insurance cover vacant periods?

Usually not. Most policies restrict cover once a pub is unoccupied unless insurers are notified.

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Is refurbishment automatically covered?

No. Refurbishment must be declared and may require specific extensions or separate works insurance.

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Do I still need insurance if the pub is closed?

Yes. Fire, theft and liability risks often increase during closure periods.

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Can cover be reinstated when the pub reopens?

Yes. Policies can be reverted back to standard pub insurance once trading resumes.

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