A standard property policy quietly reduces or removes coverage once a building has been vacant for a while, and many owners don’t find out until after a loss. We insure vacant houses, apartment buildings, commercial buildings and raw land in California, including properties waiting on permits, a sale or a renovation.
Start a vacant property & land quote or call 888-391-5981.
Common risks
- Vandalism, theft of copper or fixtures, or squatters
- A fire in an empty building
- Water damage that goes unnoticed for weeks
- Someone is injured trespassing on the property or a vacant lot
- A standard policy denies a claim because of its vacancy condition
Coverage most vacant property & land need
| Coverage | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Vacant building property coverage | Fire, lightning, explosion and other named perils, with vandalism and theft available on many policies. |
| Vacant land liability | Covers injuries to others on raw land or a vacant lot. Lenders and neighbors often ask for it. |
| Premises liability | Liability for a vacant building, including during a sale or before a remodel. |
| Builder’s risk | When work starts, the project usually moves to a builder’s risk or renovation policy. |
California requirements & what to know
Why vacancy matters: on many commercial property forms, once a building has been vacant for more than 60 consecutive days, coverage for vandalism, glass breakage, water damage and theft is removed and other losses can be reduced. Homeowners and dwelling policies have similar vacancy limits. A policy written specifically for a vacant property avoids that gap. In wildfire areas we also work with surplus lines markets and the California FAIR Plan.
Why business owners work with Pierce
- We’re an independent agency with access to standard carriers and specialty (surplus lines) markets, so we can place risks many agents turn down.
- A licensed agent handles your account from quote to renewal.
- Certificates of insurance, additional insureds and policy changes are handled fast. Request a COI.
- Local offices in San Dimas and Monrovia.
Related: Real estate investors · Apartment & rental owners · Builder’s risk · Property
Frequently asked questions
When is a property considered vacant?
Policies define it differently, but it usually means the building doesn’t contain enough contents or occupants to carry on normal operations. A house with no furniture and no tenant is typically vacant even if you visit it.
Can I insure raw land?
Yes. Vacant land liability is inexpensive and covers injuries to people on your land. It’s often required by lenders and when you’re selling.
What happens when I start renovating?
Tell us before work begins. Most owners switch to a builder’s risk or renovation policy, and the contractor should carry their own general liability.