Home Ins when unoccupied??

I guess the detail will be in the NRMA Policy Document.
Comminsure state that cover may be effected if the property is 'unoccupied' for 60 days or more. Defining 'unoccupied' is the key.
Thanks for your comments Notso.

We pay NRMA $60 extra a year to cover us for extended trips

Hi there Notso, we are with NRMA and you got a different answer to what I got, typical eh. I could probably ring again and get another different answer by some one else. I was told if away for more then 3 months some one must stay in the house ??? Regards Steve M

Hi Notso,

NRMA indicated that someone staying for 1 night in 90 days was good enough.
Perhaps I will check with them again to see if their answers are consistent.
Cheers,


Bob Southwell

Thanks toyocrusa, I just checked and NRMA have several offices in Victoria, so will put the question to them.

forget using the phone-do it in writing. Otherwise it doesnt matter one iota what they tell you, it will be in the fine print of the PDS.

I used to have a life policy with them years ago. Will give them a try also.
Thanks for the recommendation Saharaman.

Paul, I'm with Suncorp and while your situation is a little different to a home that is normally occupied they will extend cover similar to your situation.

The normal home and contents policy is clear, if the home is unoccupied for more than 90 consecutive days cover at the insured address cover stops.

However, there is a stipulation that they can decide to continue cover if the home is unoccupied for more than 90 days conditional upon: advising them beforehand, the home is secured against intruders and malicious damage according to their instructions. There is a proviso that any extra premium for the increased risk is paid; and that the insured party agrees to any increased excess imposed.

If Suncorp agrees to continue cover they will inform you in writing.

When I have used this section of the policy, they took into consideration the area where I live in terms of theft/damage history, windows had to be capable of being locked or fitted with security screens, all doors had to be fitted with security screens or deadlocked.

Generally, I'd be a little cautious if there was not a similar stipulation in the policy of other insurance companies and if they agree to extend cover I would be insisting on an attachment to the policy or at least a letter. I would not accept a verbal undertaking.

Roscoe, I'm appalled that you would not accept a verbal undertaking from an insurance company.
Most of us have either experienced, or heard of someone who has experienced fairplay and goodwill from an insurer. Surely all you have to do is ask them nicely and they'll pay-up on any reasonable claim .
Then again, perhaps I'm being a touch optomistic. I'll go with your advice and ask for confirmation.
Cheers & thanks