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Jennifer Said:

What is the definition for "unoccupied" when applied to house insurance?

We Answered:

No, sorry. You'll probably need to refer to your policy to see if it's defined there, because any policy definition takes priority over the common definition.

Normally it means, you still live there legally, but aren't there for a reason - typically would be, because you are in the hospital or on vacation. A non-owner occupant, ie, your sister, doesn't count.

Are you going on vacation for three months? If that's the case, I'd just be honest with your agent and tell them, it's not a big deal for VACATION.

Now, what I would do if it was me: first of all, if your house is unoccupied for more than 30 days, a few coverages get automatically suspended, like vandalism, and burst pipe water damage, if you don't winterize the house. But an unoccupied house policy doesn't have these coverages ANYWAY. So, I would be VERY CAREFUL to winterize the house - shut off the main water valve, drain the pipes & toilet tank. Have your sister stop by to pick up the mail & check up on the house a couple times a week, and not worry about it. If the insurance company sends you a letter, you'll be back in the house before they can get around to cancelling you.

Timothy Said:

What does this definition of claim mean?

We Answered:

It's a request or demand for payment. Just exactly as YOU defined it previously.