When a loved one dies, we understand how overwhelming it can feel, having to manage practical matters at such a challenging time. Home insurance, for example, is probably one of the last things you’ll want to worry about. So this page provides clear guidance on what to do about a home insurance policy when you’ve suffered a bereavement.
Whether you get it touch to tell us that a policyholder has died, to update policy details, or to find out how cover might be affected, we’re here to help you navigate the process with confidence.
Frequently asked questions
Are you the executor?
The executor is the person named in the will who’s responsible for managing the estate of someone who’s died. If you’re an executor, you may be handling their financial matters, including their home insurance. We need to speak with you to ensure the policy is still relevant.
If you’re the executor, you can notify us that someone has died by using our simple online form.
Gathering the information you need before you start could help you complete the form. The following details will help us:
Policy number (if you have it): you can find this in letters or documents from us. Or it may be the reference number on the bank statement if the premium is paid by monthly direct debit.
Occupation of the property: we’ll need to know if the property is no longer occupied and whether you want to change the mailing address.
If you don’t have these details, that’s absolutely fine. You can still complete this form if the property is occupied, or this form if the property isn't occupied.
What if there is no executor or will?
If you’re not the executor, please phone our dedicated team on 0345 266 9682.
If there’s no will, a close relative to the person who’s died can apply for a grant of letters of administration. This gives them similar powers to manage the estate, but they must follow legal rules about who inherits what.
If there is a will, but an executor hasn't been named, a close relative or beneficiary can apply for a grant of letters of administration with will annexed. In both cases this grant is often required before banks, insurers, or other organisations will release funds or transfer ownership of assets.
Has probate been granted for the property?
Probate is the legal process that gives someone the authority to deal with a person’s estate after they’ve died. This usually means the executor (named in the will) applies for a legal document called a grant of probate. If there is no will, an administrator will apply for letters of administration.
Once probate is granted, the executor or administrator can begin the administration of the estate. This means managing assets, paying debts and distributing inheritance according to the will or legal rules.
Is the property in trust?
If a property is in trust, it means it’s legally owned by a trust rather than an individual. Trustees manage the property for the benefit of others. If this applies to your situation, the trustees will need to contact us.
Is the property unoccupied?
Based on our definition, a property is considered occupied or lived in only when everyday activities such as these are regularly carried out there:
- cooking
- eating
- bathing
- cleaning
- sleeping
If these everyday activities aren’t regularly happening in the property, it’s classified as unoccupied under our policy terms. Please contact us if you need further information.
Is the policy still active?
Yes, the policy usually remains active, but it’s important to notify us as soon as possible so we can update the details and ensure the right cover is in place.
Who is responsible for managing the home insurance now?
Responsibility typically falls to the executor of the estate or the person handling the deceased’s affairs. We’ll guide you through what needs to be done.
What happens if the property is now unoccupied?
If no one is living in the property, please let us know. Unoccupied homes may need different cover, and we’ll help make sure it’s protected appropriately.
Do I need to pay for the insurance, or who does?
The cost of the insurance may be covered by the estate, or by whoever is managing the property. We can advise on payment options and next steps.
What if there is no will?
If there’s no will, the estate is usually managed under legal rules known as intestacy. We can still help you update or manage the home insurance during this process.
I don’t live in the UK – what should I do?
If you’re handling the estate from outside the UK, we can still support you. Please get in touch with our team, and we’ll guide you through the steps remotely.
Will the property still be covered during probate?
Yes, the property can remain insured during probate. However, we may need to update the policy details to reflect the change in circumstances.
Can I make changes to the home insurance policy?
Yes, but only certain changes can be made depending on your role (e.g. executor or trustee). We’ll help you understand what’s possible and what’s required.
Can my solicitor operate the policy?
Yes, but we would need to speak to an authorised person such as an executor first. Please contact us and we can guide you on how to proceed.
What is power of attorney?
It’s a legal document that lets a person (known as the donor) appoint one or more people they trust (known as attorneys) to act on their behalf. This gives the donor peace of mind that attorneys will deal with their affairs on their behalf if they’re unable to.
It’s normal for attorneys to share a copy of the power of attorney with people or organisations such as the donor’s:
bank
insurance company
utility companies
healthcare professionals such as GP etc.
Companies will have their own requirements to record a power of attorney, so you’ll need to check with them. But generally speaking, the attorney will need to provide a certified copy of the power of attorney and proof of their identity.