If your property is left vacant for 30 consecutive days or more, your standard insurance policy will activate specific “Unoccupancy Clauses.” Failure to strictly adhere to these requirements is the number one reason claims are denied.
We conduct all VPI services to support these typical industry standards.
1. Inspection Frequency (The Non-Negotiable Term)
The frequency of inspection is often the most rigid requirement dictated by your policy. You must adhere to the exact schedule specified by your insurer.
Most Common: A thorough, documented inspection is required at least once every 7 days (weekly).
Common Alternative: Depending on the property’s risk level, some policies allow inspections once every 14 days (fortnightly).
Our Commitment: Missing even one scheduled inspection can void a claim. We tailor our service to your exact documentation schedule.
2. Documentation and Audit Trail (Proof of Due Diligence)
Insurers require verifiable proof that the inspection occurred and that you actively managed risk.
Verifiable Record: Each VPI must be logged, dated, and signed. We provide electronic reports as standard.
Time and GPS Proof: Our reports include time-stamped and GPS-verified data, proving the inspector was physically present at the property at the correct time.
Photographic Evidence: We capture mandatory photos of key risk areas (locks, pipes, meters) to verify the property’s condition immediately before, during, and after the inspection.
3. Essential Inspection Scope (What Must Be Checked)
Your VPI must confirm that you are actively mitigating the highest risks associated with vacant properties. Our inspectors strictly check the following:
Security & Access
Verify that all external doors, windows, and access points are fully locked, secured, and free from signs of tampering or attempted entry.
Check the perimeter for signs of squatters, vandalism, or unauthorized access.
Water Damage & Utilities (Major Claim Risks)
Inspect for visible signs of water leaks (pipes, ceilings, heating systems) and ensure all non-essential utilities are turned off at the mains.
Winter Requirement (Typically Nov 1 – March 31): Confirm that heating is maintained to a minimum temperature (often $\text{10}^\circ\text{C}$) or that all water systems have been professionally drained down and shut off.
Fire Safety & Maintenance
Check for the accumulation of internal and external waste or combustible materials.
Collect mail and remove rubbish from the premises to avoid signaling that the property is vacant.
Crucial Advice for Clients: Your policy dictates the precise frequency (usually every 7 or 14 days). Always provide us with your specific insurance policy wording so we can guarantee we execute and document the inspections to that exact schedule, ensuring your full coverage remains intact.