My landlord insurance refuses to pay out?

-I took out land lord house insurance on a property I rent out.

The house was empty and someone broke in and stole the central heating, including boilder and pipes, they even took the kitchen sink. The property was without a tennant for 31 days, the terms of the insurance states that the property should not be empty for more than 30 days. This is why they are refusing to pay out. Thing is I was there with someone else for 4 days decorating a week before the break in. Surely this means the house was only empty 7 days before the break in. I'm I right in thinking they should pay out, and who do I turn to for help. Thanks inadvance CraigI'm afraid that you being there for four days does not count as 'residing' at the property UNLESS you can convince them that you stayed there overnight for the period, then, as you say, the property would not have been empty for 31 days.



ADDED: LOL at Paula Meadows above - a criminal justice major - didn't even read the question properly - how can you represent someone in the future if you don't read the facts - that was not what he was asking.



I can just see your first client now - got a parking ticket he wants to fight and with your representation, he gets the electric chair for murder
Nope, the terms of their insurance were stated clearly, so they have every right to refuse to pay out. Sorry. (and as John H states, you being there for 4 days decorating does not satisfy their requirements as you were not residing at the property at the time ..i assume). If you had contacted the insurance company when your tenants moved out, to advise them that it was going to be empty, they may have adapted your cover accordingly, but it's too late for that now.
Wow Paula, do you just cut and paste your answers. Try to read the question.



You staying there probably doesn't count and when you make a claim you need to talk to your broker FIRST so they can prep you on what to say and what not to say -- all while maintaining the truth.



"The house was only vacant for seven days prior." See how that's not lying and fits the parameters of the policy.
Yes, I would argue that the house was empty for 27 days. You should have a lawyer look into your case, at least for a free consultation. Don't let insurance companies get away with shirking their duties.



But who breaks into a house and steals a boiler? Sounds fishy.
Honestly, you need to get a lawyer to hear your case and give you options. As a criminal justice major, I know that this landlord probably won't give in without a fight, and just trying to talk to him will probably do nothing.