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Beach Hut Buying Guide for 2025
Beach Hut Buying Guide for 2025 1000 667 James Hallam

Growing numbers of Brits are buying beach huts across the country. If you are looking to buy your first beach hut, this post will provide a step-by-step guide to the process, from your initial research to the final sale.

Research Your Beach Hut Location

Where do you want your beach hut to be based? Somewhere close to you, so that you can escape to it every weekend throughout the summer? Or somewhere further away, so that you can base your full family holiday around your beach hut?

One thing to consider is that the prices of beach huts will vary across the country. So it might be worth deciding your budget before you pick your location.

Make a shortlist of possible locations, and be sure to spend some time in each location before you make any final decisions. Take in the local amenities, and try to get a feel for the atmosphere and the community in the area.

Finally, contact the local council. Certain councils might impose certain restrictions on beach hut ownership, and you may have to get their permission before you make any changes to the hut.

Should You Buy a Freehold or Leasehold Beach Hut?

You may have to choose between a freehold or a leasehold beach hut:

  • Freehold – You own both the structure and the land it is built on. This would give you the freedom to do essentially anything with the hut. However, freehold beach huts tend to be expensive, and comparatively rare.
  • Leasehold – These are managed by local councils, and there are often tight restrictions on how you can use the hut, along with lengthy waiting lists to get a hut. Some councils only allow local residents to purchase their leasehold beach huts, but others will be a bit more flexible. The upside is that leasehold beach huts tend to be a lot cheaper than freehold beach huts.

Choose Your Hut

Once you have a budget and a location in mind, it is time to choose your beach hut.

If you want to get a leasehold beach hut, you will have to purchase it through the local council.

If you want to buy a freehold beach hut, you will have to do so through other channels, such as:

  • Find an estate agent that specialises in beach huts in your target area
  • Get in touch with the local beach hut association
  • Check online marketplaces, such as Facebook and eBay
  • Look at local classified ads in newspapers and newsagents

Be sure to view any potential hut before you agree to buy it. Get an idea of its condition, and think about whether you would need to do any work before you could start using the hut. Also think about how close it is to the nearest facilities and amenities. And perhaps most important of all, does it have a good view?

Finalising the Sale

If you are looking to purchase a leasehold beach hut, then you will pay whatever price the council wants you to pay.

But if you are looking to buy a freehold beach hut, you might be able to make an offer. Just remember that the current owner might have a lot of interest in their hut, so they may be considering multiple offers alongside yours.

If they accept your offer, you can then agree on the terms of your sale. This mainly means agreeing on a completion date, but you may also be able to agree on including certain items in the sale, such as fixtures, fittings, and furniture.

It may be useful to hire a solicitor to ensure that all of the paperwork is in order, and that you are not overlooking anything major. After this, it will just be a case of making the payment on your agreed terms, and getting all the documents and the keys on your completion date.

Taking Care Of Your Beach Hut

Once you have bought your beach hut, you will have to commit to ongoing maintenance. There are a number of reasons to do this:

  • It will keep your beach hut in good condition, ensuring that it will always remain a pleasant place to spend time.
  • It will help to protect your beach hut from the elements. A fresh coat of paint now and then can form an effective barrier against wind and rain over the winter.
  • Thieves and vandals may be more likely to target beaten and weathered beach huts. Keep yours in good condition and it might deter them.
  • Your insurer may require you to perform certain maintenance as part of your beach hut insurance

Read our essential guide to beach hut maintenance.

Get The Right Cover For Your Beach Hut

Just like any investment, it is a good idea to get adequate insurance cover for your beach hut.

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who specialise in getting you the cover you need at a competitive price.

We will ensure you get full cover for your beach hut, no matter its size or location, and no matter how you use it.

Learn more about our specialist beach hut insurance and get a free quote today.

 

Do You Pay Council Tax on Unoccupied Properties?
Do You Pay Council Tax on Unoccupied Properties? 1000 867 James Hallam

In most cases, you have to pay council tax on every property you own, even if the property is currently empty or unoccupied. However, depending on your local council, you may be able to get a discount on council tax for any unoccupied properties you own.

What is an Unoccupied Property?

Usually, when we talk about empty or unoccupied properties, we might be referring to:

  • Homes that have been left vacant after the owner passes away.
  • Rental properties that do not currently have any tenants. This might include commercial properties as well as homes.
  • Second homes and holiday homes, which are only occupied at certain times of the year.

Do You Pay Council Tax on Unoccupied Properties?

Yes, you usually have to pay council tax on all properties you own or rent, even if they do not currently have anyone occupying them.

If your property is classed as a “second home”, then you may have to pay a second home premium, which can be up to two times the ordinary council tax rate.

If your property is empty for a long period of time, your council maybe be able to charge you up to 300% on top of the standard council tax rate.

It all depends on the local council. For more information, contact your local council to see what rates apply in your area. You may also be able to apply for a discount.

Unoccupied Property Council Tax Exemptions

First, certain individuals are exempt – or “disregarded” – from paying council tax. You must apply for exemption even if you meet the criteria. Head here for a full list of people who are eligible for council tax exemption.

Beyond this, there are permanent exemptions for certain types of second homes and empty properties:

  • If the property is an annex – that is, it forms part of the same property, and is being used as part of the main residence.
  • If the property is supplied by your employer to use as accommodation when working in a different area.
  • If certain local planning restrictions mean that you cannot use the property as a permanent residence.
  • The property is currently uninhabitable due to major repairs or renovations. In this case, you may have to supply evidence of the property’s condition, along with a timeline for the work, to qualify for discount or exemption.

Also, you can get a 12 month exemption from paying the second home premium if:

  • You are currently marketing the property for sale or to rent.
  • You have received a grant of probate for the property, and are therefore managing it as part of your duty as a will’s executor.

Please note that these exemptions, whether they are temporary or permanent, only apply to the second home premium. You may still have to pay the standard council tax rate, even if you meet the criteria.

Long-Term Empty Property Council Tax Premiums

Some councils will apply significant premiums if a property is left empty for a long-term period:

  • If the property is left empty for two years, you may have to pay double the standard rate.
  • After five years, you may have to pay triple the standard rate.
  • After 10 years, you may have to pay quadruple the standard rate.

This is why it is a good idea to sell or lease properties as quickly as possible. If you are a landlord and you are struggling to find suitable tenants, enlisting a letting agent could help you fill the property quicker so as to avoid these hefty premiums.

You may also be able to avoid these premiums through converting the property for commercial use. Commercial buildings may be subject to business rates rather than council tax, for which you may be able to get some tax relief.

How to Keep Your Empty Property Safe

Empty properties are more vulnerable to theft and vandalism. Plus, if anything goes wrong in the property, if there is nobody around to address the issue, even a small problem could quickly escalate into a full scale disaster. A small leak, for example, could spiral into a major escape of water situation.

No matter what your circumstances are, there are certain steps you should take to keep your empty property safe:

  • Invest in extra security, such as CCTV, alarms, and locks.
  • Use timers and motion-activated lights to make it look like someone is home.
  • Check on the property as often as possible, to look for any potential issues. You could also collect accumulating mail and take care of the bins, again to make it look like the home is occupied.
  • Appoint someone to check on your property for you, if you can’t. Some organisations offer dedicated property guardian schemes for this very purpose.
  • Consider turning the utilities off whenever you are not using the property. There may be risks associated with this, though – such as no power to supply your security systems, and a lack of heating leading to frozen pipes in the winter. Be sure to weigh up the pros and cons first.
  • Get specialist insurance cover. Most home insurance properties will only cover occupied homes. Depending on your circumstances, you may have to get dedicated probate home insurance, second home insurance, holiday home insurance, or home renovation insurance.

Specialist Unoccupied Home Insurance From James Hallam

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who are committed to protecting your property at a competitive price.

We can help you get dedicated insurance to cover your unoccupied property, no matter what your specific personal circumstances are. We can also advise you on steps you can take to keep your property safe and secure.

Learn more about our insurance services and get a free quote today.

Beach Hut Maintenance Checklist for the Summer
Beach Hut Maintenance Checklist for the Summer 1000 667 James Hallam

Regular maintenance will keep your beach hut clean and pleasant all year round. Maintenance can also help to protect your beach hut from the elements, which is why some insurers specify how you should care for your beach hut as a requirement of their beach hut insurance policies.

In this post we will discuss an essential beach hut maintenance for the summer, which will help you enjoy your hut throughout the winter while keeping it safe through the colder months of the year.

Beach Hut Summer Maintenance For the Beginning of the Season

If you’re using your beach hut for the first time since last year, you might find that you need to do some essential maintenance before you can use your hut this summer:

  • Thoroughly clean your hut both inside and out. Sweep out any sand that may have accumulated, dust all the surfaces, and give the walls a scrub.
  • Open the doors along with any windows to air out your hut, and to help prevent mould and mildew.
  • Oil any hinges to help prevent rust. Also look for any signs of rust and corrosion on metal surfaces, and apply an anti-rust coating if necessary.
  • Consider decluttering your hut. Are there any items you don’t use, or don’t need, anymore? Is there anything you need to repair or replace?
  • If your hut has an outdoor deck, apply a fresh coat of wood stain or sealer.

Beach Hut Safety Checks For Summer

  • Check that all of the hut’s locks work, and replace or repair any components as necessary.
  • Look for any loose components and aim to get them repaired as soon as possible.
  • Consider stocking your hut with essential safety equipment, including sunscreen, a first-aid kit, and a fire extinguisher.
  • Consider installing a smoke alarm, and even a burglar alarm, to address the risks of fires or break-ins.

How Often Should I Repaint My Beach Hut?

If possible, give your hut a fresh coat of paint once a year – ideally in spring, before the summer season starts.

Beach huts can take a battering over the winter, as the temperatures drop and the likelihood of severe weather increases. But all year round, salty air can affect any paint job.

Regularly painting your beach hut will help keep it looking and feeling fresh, while also offering ongoing protection against the elements. Plus, thieves and vandals may be less likely to target a hut that looks colourful and pristine, as it can suggest that the hut is regularly used and regularly monitored.

Just note that the local council may set certain requirements for the colours you can use for your hut.

As well as refreshing your hut with a coat or two of paint, you could also look for ways to revitalise the interior. This could be with a new rug, new cushions, or new curtains.

Specialist Beach Hut Insurance From James Hallam

As we mentioned above, you may be required to carry out certain annual maintenance tasks as part of your beach hut insurance.

The summer might be a good opportunity to review your beach hut insurance. Are you getting all the cover you need, at a best price?

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who are committed to protecting your beach hut at a competitive price.

We provide a specialist beach hut insurance scheme and are experts in this market. We will ensure you get full cover for your beach hut, no matter its size or location, and no matter how you use it.

Learn more about our specialist beach hut insurance and get a free quote today.

 

How Do I Insure an Unoccupied Property?
How Do I Insure an Unoccupied Property? 1000 667 James Hallam

Most home insurance policies will only cover “occupied” properties. If a property is unoccupied for a certain period of time, the policy may no longer provide the cover you need.

In this post we will discuss how you can insure an unoccupied property, to give you peace of mind that you will be fully covered even when there is nobody currently occupying the property.

Unoccupied Property vs. Vacant Property

An unoccupied property is one that was previously inhabited, but which does not currently have any inhabitants. This could be as a result of a homeowner passing away.

A “vacant” property, is a property that is completely empty with no current occupants. For example, a new build home that is yet to be bought, or a rental property that is seeking tenants, will be classed as a “vacant” property rather than an “unoccupied” property.

Read our full guide to the difference between unoccupied and vacant properties.

When Does a Property Become Unoccupied?

As we mentioned above, a property might become unoccupied when its owner passes away, and when there is nobody else currently living at the house.

Yet insurers will also consider a property to be unoccupied if it is left empty for a certain period of time. This could be as little as 30 consecutive days.

For this reason, if you have a second home that you only use at certain times of the year, or if you leave your main property for an extended period, your property may eventually be considered “unoccupied”. At this point, your home insurance will no longer cover you.

How Do I Insure an Unoccupied Property?

You can get specialist unoccupied home insurance if your property will be unoccupied for an extended period of time, for reasons such as:

  • You are travelling for an extended period, or you need long-term residential healthcare.
  • You are moving in with your partner, but you have not yet sold your own home.
  • When selling your home, or getting renovations done, you choose to live elsewhere.
  • You buy a new home, but you are unable to move into it for the time being.
  • You own a second home or holiday home, which you only use for certain months of the year.

What If My Property Will Be Unoccupied for Not Much Longer Than 30 Days?

If you will be leaving your home unoccupied for a shorter period of time – longer than 30 days, but not so long as to justify a dedicated unoccupied home insurance policy – then you may be able to get an extension on your current policy’s absence period. Contact your insurer, or check your policy wording, for more information.

What Does Unoccupied Home Insurance Cover?

Unoccupied home insurance will usually offer the same cover as you would get with a standard home insurance policy. However, there may be some exceptions to the cover.

For example, if you will be leaving your home unoccupied while renovations take place, then unoccupied home insurance may not cover you for damages that arise from the renovations, or for damages caused by contractors.

And while unoccupied home insurance will cover you for break-ins and theft, it may not cover you for “unforced entry”. So if you accidentally leave a window or door open, you will not be able to claim for any resulting theft.

Probate Home Insurance

When someone passes away, if they leave a will, an executor will work to ensure that the deceased’s estate is settled. This process is known as probate.

If there is any property in the will, the executor may choose to sell it. Alternatively, the will may stipulate that a relative, or another beneficiary, shall inherit the house.

In any case, nothing can proceed until the probate process is complete. This means that the property may remain unoccupied for as long as it takes to complete probate. As the entire process can take up to a year, this can cause some issues with the home insurance.

A dedicated probate home insurance property can cover the unoccupied property throughout the probate process. The policy might specify that you take certain steps to secure the property throughout the process, and it may also require you to periodically check on the property.

Get Specialist Insurance For Your Unoccupied Property From James Hallam

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who are committed to protecting your property.

Whether you need to cover a property throughout the probate process, or you need to dedicated cover for your property throughout an extended period of absence, we can help you get the specialist cover you need at a competitive price. We can also help you secure comprehensive cover for a second home or a holiday home.

Learn more about our expert private insurance services here.

 

Do Farm Quad Bikes and Agricultural ATV Need Insurance?
Do Farm Quad Bikes and Agricultural ATV Need Insurance? 1000 733 James Hallam

If you use a quad bike or an ATV for agricultural purposes – that is, if you only use it on farmland and not on UK roads – then you may be exempt from paying tax on the vehicle, and you may not even need a driving licence.

But what about insurance? Do you need to pay insurance on farm quad bikes and agricultural ATVs?

An Introduction to Agricultural Quad Bike and ATV Insurance

If you are driving any vehicle on UK roads, then you have a legal requirement to get at least third party insurance cover. It is an offence to drive an uninsured vehicle on public roads. But if you are only driving your quad bike or ATV off-road, then this law does not apply. You do not have a legal obligation to get any insurance for your agricultural quad bike or ATV, so long as you only ever ride it off-road.

 You will need at least third party insurance cover for any time you spend on public roads, even if it’s just a five minute journey between two fields.

However, even if there is no law saying you need insurance for your agricultural quad bikes and ATVs, it is still a good idea to get comprehensive cover for all possible risks.

The Risks Associated With Agricultural Quad Bikes and ATVs

Quad bikes and ATVs can be significant investments, and many farmers depend on them for a range of agricultural purposes. Unfortunately, quad bikes and ATVs are a prime target for thieves, as they are valuable and very easy to move and sell. If nothing else, you need insurance to cover you against the risks of theft. Yet insurance can also cover your quad bike or ATV if it is ever destroyed or damaged.

Think about how crucial your quad bike or ATV is to your farmwork, and how much of an inconvenience it would be if your vehicle were ever destroyed, damaged, or stolen. Would you be able to afford repairs, or a replacement? This is where adequate insurance can help you stay afloat.

Registering Agricultural Quad Bikes and ATVs

First, you should register your agricultural quad bike or ATV with the DVLA. Depending on the type of vehicle you use, and how you use it, you may have a legal requirement to do this anyway. But in any case, registering the vehicle can help the police recover it should it ever get stolen.

If you use the vehicle solely for off-road purposes, then you can add it to the Off-Road Register. If you use it for agricultural purposes, then you may need to register it as a light agricultural vehicle.

Securing Insurance for Your Farm Quad Bike

You will need at least third party insurance if you ever take your quad bike or ATV on public roads. If you are strictly off-road, then it is still a good idea to get some dedicated agricultural quad bike and ATV insurance to cover you for the risks of theft, or damage.

Your insurer may outline certain requirements you will need to meet before they cover you. For instance, they may specify that you need to keep your vehicle locked in a secure garage whenever you are not using it.

Specialist Quad Bike Insurance From James Hallam

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who care about protecting your assets.

We provide specialist ATV insurance for clients who use their quad bikes or ATVs in connection with agricultural work or shoots. You can also get additional benefits if you are a BASC member.

Learn more about our dedicated ATV and quad bike insurance services.

Do You Pay Council Tax on a Shepherd’s Hut?
Do You Pay Council Tax on a Shepherd’s Hut? 1000 563 James Hallam

The tax you pay on your shepherd’s hut will depend on where it is located, and how you use it.

In this post we will discuss some situations in which you may need to pay council tax, or other kinds of tax, on your shepherd’s hut.

When Do You Pay Council Tax on a Shepherd’s Hut?

If the shepherd’s hut is on your own land – that is, in the garden attached to your main family residence – and if only you or your family use it, then you will probably not have to pay council tax on it. But if you or anyone else uses the hut as their primary residence, then council tax may apply.

You may also have to pay council tax if the shepherd’s hut is located on a plot of land that is not part of your main residence. In this case, the local council may treat your shepherd’s hut as a second home, or an unoccupied property, and tax you accordingly.

Contact your local council for more information about the council tax rules in your area. Let them know where your shepherd’s hut is located, and how you use it, and they can advise you on the tax you will need to pay. They will also advise you on whether or not you need to register your shepherd’s hut with the local authority.

Do You Have To Pay Council Tax If You Let Out Your Shepherd’s Hut?

You may also have to pay council tax on the hut if you let it to holidaymakers. This may depend on whether or not the shepherd’s hut is located on land that is part of your primary residence, or if it is located on a separate plot of land.

Other Taxes to Pay If You Let Your Shepherd’s Hut to Holidaymakers

If you let your shepherd’s hut to holidaymakers, you may also have to pay certain business rates, including income tax, VAT, and capital gains tax. The tax you pay, and the amount you owe, will depend on how much income you make from letting your shepherd’s hut. The number of nights your shepherd’s hut is available to let each year can also determine the business rates you will need to pay.

Read the full government guidance on business rates for self-catering and holiday let accommodation.

Tax Relief For Shepherd’s Hut

If you let your shepherd’s hut to holidaymakers, and you do not live in it yourself, then it may qualify as a Furnished Holiday Letting (FHL).

To be classed as an FHL, your shepherd’s hut must meet certain criteria:

  • It must be furnished by you.
  • The hut must be available to let for at least 210 days of the first tax year you start letting. It does not matter whether or not you have bookings for the entire 210 days.
  • You must not allow for stays longer than 31 days.
  • The hut must be commercially let as a holiday property for at least 105 days of the year. Any time you, your friends, or your family spends in the hut for free or at reduced rates do not count towards this total.

If your shepherd’s hut does qualify as an FHL, you can get a range of benefits:

  • Capital gains tax relief.
  • Capital allowances for any furniture, equipment, and fixtures you purchase and fit.
  • Any rental income can count as earnings for pension purchases.

Read the government’s full guide to FHLs, the eligibility, and the possible tax relief.

Get The Insurance Cover You Need For Your Shepherd’s Hut

No matter how you use your shepherd’s hut – whether for a garden office, as a personal getaway, or as a rental property – it is important that you get the right insurance for your property.

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who specialise in getting you the cover you need at a competitive price.

We will ensure you get full cover for your shepherd’s hut, wherever it is located, and however you use it.

Learn more about our specialist shepherd’s hut insurance and get a free quote today.

What Licence Do You Need For a Quad Bike?
What Licence Do You Need For a Quad Bike? 500 334 James Hallam

If you own an ATV or quad bike, or you are looking to purchase one, then it is important to understand the licensing requirements.

In this post we will discuss what licence you need for a quad bike, along with a few other important rules.

What Licence Do You Need for a Quad Bike?

The licence you need to ride a quad bike or ATV will depend on whether you are using it on roads, or off road. You need a full car licence to ride a quad bike on UK roads but if you only intend to ride your quid bike off-road, then you do not need a driving licence. In all cases, you must be aged 16 or over to ride a quad bike.

What Do You Need to Use A Quad Bike on UK Roads?

You need a full car licence to ride a quad bike on UK roads. If your licence was issued before January 1997, then it needs to be a category B1 licence.

You also need a minimum of third party insurance to use a quad bike on the road, and you will need a valid MOT certificate if the quad bike is more than three years old. On top of this, you will need to tax the vehicle, and if you are driving in Northern Ireland, you must wear a crash helmet.

Bear in mind that many quad bikes and ATVs do not meet road safety standards. So, before you take your quad bike on the road, you will need to check with the manufacturer that the vehicle has been approved for road use. You may also have to apply for type approval.

Finally, you will have to register the quad bike or ATV with the DVLA, and fit number plates to the front and the rear of the vehicle.

Do You Need Tax and Insurance To Use Your Quad Bike Off-Road?

If you only intend to ride your quad bike off-road, then you do not need a driving licence. There is also no requirement to tax or register an off-road quad bike. However, you may choose to add your quad bike to the off-road register. This lets you record some of your vehicle’s key details, which can help the police recover the quad bike if it is ever stolen.

Agricultural Quad Bikes and ATVs

You do not need a licence to ride a quad bike on agricultural land. However, if you are using your quad bike for agriculture, horticulture, or forestry work, you must register it as a light agricultural vehicle.

You do not usually have to pay tax on an agricultural quad bike.

There may be times when you have to temporarily ride your quad bike on a public road, such as when you are travelling from one field to another. In this case, you must register the vehicle with the DVLA, and you must attach number plates to the front and rear. The quad bike will also need working lights, if you ever ride it after dark.

You do not need an MOT certificate to ride an agricultural quad bike on public roads. But you will need a minimum of third party insurance cover.

Dedicated Quad Bike Insurance From James Hallam

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who care about protecting your assets. Read our full guide to quad bike insurance here.

We provide specialist ATV insurance for clients who use their ATVs in connection with agricultural work or shoots. You can also get additional benefits if you are a BASC member.

Learn more about our dedicated ATV and quad bike insurance services.

 

Can You Live and Sleep in a Beach Hut?
Can You Live and Sleep in a Beach Hut? 500 334 James Hallam

Can you sleep in a beach hut? More than that, can you live in a beach hut?

Local councils set the rules for what is and is not allowed in the beach huts in their area, and there are often strict regulations regarding overnight stays.

This means it is very unlikely that the council will allow you to use your beach hut as a permanent residence.

Can You Sleep in a Beach Hut?

If you buy a beach hut, you will have to contact your council to license it for overnight stays. They may require you to install certain features to ensure your beach hut is suitable for overnight stays. These might include plumbing, electricity, and certain security and weatherproofing features. It is for this reason that most councils do not permit overnight stays in beach huts.

The sort of beach huts that can accommodate overnight stays tend to be larger than average – more like small chalets than traditional “bathing huts”.

Find your local council here. Your local Beach Hut Association will also be able to advise.

What If I Want to Rent Out My Beach Hut?

If you want to rent out your beach hut for overnight stays, once again, you need to speak to your local council, and your local Beach Hut Association. There will be regulations for how long you can let your beach hut. For example, the licence may only allow overnight stays in specified months of the year – usually between March and October.

Or your council may have a “daytime only” policy. This may specify the hours when your guests will be allowed to use your beach hut. Many councils allow guests to arrive from 6.00 am, while requiring them to leave by 10.00 pm.

Can You Live in a Beach Hut?

If you can sleep in a beach hut, then surely you can also live in it, for extended periods? Once more, the rules will vary by location. Talk to your local council, and your local Beach Hut Association about the rules in your location. Unfortunately, it is very unlikely that your council will permit you to use your beach hut as a permanent residence all year round, as most restrict stays to a seasonal period.

The question is, even if the council does allow you to live in your beach hut, would you want to?

Most beach huts are tiny, measuring around 6 ft². So, even if you install plumbing and electricity, and somehow find room for a kitchen and a bathroom, your beach hut will likely feel too cramped and uncomfortable to call a home.

Some people have tried to live in their beach huts. One family did so, and described the experience as “just horrendous”.

Why Are There Such Tight Restrictions for Beach Huts?

It is usually because of the risks involved. Beach huts are exposed to the elements all year round. High winds and stormy seas can cause significant damage. There have even been instances of entire rows of beach huts getting swept out to sea during a storm.

Add to this the risk of crime, and it is perhaps understandable why many councils are reluctant to allow people to stay overnight in beach huts.

Is Your Beach Hut Safe?

If you own a beach hut, you will have to take steps to secure your property against the elements, and against vandalism and break-ins.

Security and weatherproofing systems are important. But it is also important that you get adequate insurance for your beach hut. Read our full guide to beach hut insurance.

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who specialise in getting you the cover you need at a competitive price.

We provide a specialist beach hut insurance scheme and are experts in this market. We will ensure you get full cover for your beach hut, no matter its size or location, and no matter how you use it.

Learn more about our specialist beach hut insurance and get a free quote today.

 

What is Classed as an Unoccupied Property?
What is Classed as an Unoccupied Property? 500 334 James Hallam

Some empty or uninhabited homes are classed as “vacant” properties, and some as “unoccupied” properties.

It is important to understand the difference between these terms, as there are legal and insurance implications for each.

In this post we will explain what is classed as an unoccupied property, and discuss why this matters.

Unoccupied vs. Vacant Properties

You might think that an “unoccupied” property is simply one that does not contain any occupants. However, it is a little bit more complicated than this. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the property, it may be classed as either “unoccupied” or “vacant”.

What is an Unoccupied Property?

An “unoccupied property” is a property that was previously inhabited but which, for one reason or another, does not currently have any inhabitants.

When is a Home Classed as Unoccupied?

Here are some situations that might result in a home being classed as an unoccupied property:

  • A homeowner passes away, leaving their home empty. Their home will be classed as “unoccupied” until someone lives in it again – whether this is a beneficiary in a will, or a future occupant should the beneficiaries decide to sell the property.
  • A homeowner leaves their home for an extended period, such as for a long holiday or a business trip, or for the duration of a renovation project.
  • A second home that is only used at certain times of year might be classed as unoccupied when not in use.

A property will have to be left empty for a set period of time before it is legally classed as “unoccupied”. Different insurers will specify different time periods relating to when they consider a property to be unoccupied. Usually this is 30, 45 or 60 days or more. Check with your insurer to find out what they have specified in their policy.

What is a Vacant Property?

A vacant property is a property that is totally empty, with no current occupants.

When is a Home or Properly Classed a Vacant?

Examples of vacant properties include:

  • New builds and empty homes that have not yet found a buyer.
  • Unused storage, studio, or warehouse spaces.
  • Cleared commercial properties that are currently on the market, or which are soon to be on the market.
  • Abandoned or condemned properties that are due for demolition.

Unoccupied or Vacant Property Insurance Implications

Home insurance policies usually only cover occupied properties. As we mentioned above, your insurer might consider your home to be “unoccupied” if you leave it empty for more than 30 days at a time.

What happens if you leave your property empty for so long that it meets your insurer’s criteria for being “unoccupied”? Essentially, it means that your insurance may no longer be valid. If anything happens to your property while it is “unoccupied” – such as a fire, flood, or a burglary – then you may not be able to make a claim on your policy.

When Might You Be Affected by Unoccupied Property Insurance Issues?

Here are some situations where this might cause you serious problems:

  • If you have inherited a home. You will not be able to occupy, sell, or rent the property until the probate process is complete – that is, until the will has been fully settled. The probate process can take months, and delays are common. If the property is “unoccupied” throughout the process, then a standard home insurance policy may not provide the cover you need.
  • If you have a second home. If you leave your second home or your holiday home unoccupied for months at a time, then it is important to ensure that your insurance covers you for any periods when you are not using the home.
  • If you are planning an extended trip. If a planned holiday or business trip will take you away from your home for longer than the time specified in your policy, and if your home will be empty or no member of your family will be there while you are away, then you may inadvertently void your home insurance cover.

How To Keep An Unoccupied Property Safe

  • Take extra steps to secure the property. Invest in extra security, and consider shutting off the property’s utilities to reduce the risk of fires and floods. However, if the home will be unoccupied through the winter months, setting the heating to come on at certain points during the day can prevent pipes from freezing, which can make leaks less likely.
  • Check on the property from time to time. If you can periodically check on the property, you can address any potential issues, such as leaks, before they become truly problematic. Even better, if you can spend the night at the house from time to time, or even appoint someone to look after the property for you, you can ensure that the home never meets your insurer’s criteria for being unoccupied.
  • Get specialist insurance for unoccupied properties. Dedicated probate insurance can give you full cover throughout the entire probate period. Similarly, specialist second home insurance can provide cover even if your second home is unoccupied for extended periods throughout the year.

Get Dedicated Unoccupied Home Insurance From James Hallam

Whether you are dealing with the probate process for an inherited home, or you need some specialist insurance for a second home, we can help you get the cover you need at a competitive price.

Learn more about our expert private insurance services here.

Do I Need Planning Permission For a Shepherd’s Hut?
Do I Need Planning Permission For a Shepherd’s Hut? 500 334 James Hallam

Do you need planning permission for a shepherd’s hut? It depends on a few things, such as where you want to build the hut, and how you intend to use it.

In this post we will explore some situations where you probably will not need planning permission for a shepherd’s hut. We will also discuss some situations where you might need some form of permission.

How Personal Use and Permitted Development Applies to Shepherd’s Huts

If you plan to build a shepherd’s hut on your own land – such as in your back garden – and if the hut is just for your personal use, then you may not need any planning permission.

A shepherd’s hut is classed as an outbuilding. Most homeowners have “permitted development” rights for certain types of outbuildings, including sheds, cabins, summerhouses, and shepherd’s hut. Among these permitted rights is a right to proceed with construction without getting planning permission.

Shepherd’s Hut Permitted Development Criteria

For permitted development rights to apply, there are certain criteria that your shepherd’s hut must satisfy:

  • It must be for personal use only. You cannot rent it out to others.
  • It must be built to the side or the back of your house. You cannot build it in your front garden, or anywhere else in front of your house.
  • If you are going to build the shepherd’s hut within two metres of your house boundaries, then it must not exceed 2.5 metres in height. If you are building the shepherd’s hut two metres or further from your house boundaries, then its eaves cannot be higher than 2.5 metres, and the highest point of its roof must not be more than four metres from the ground.
  • The shepherd’s hut, along with other outbuildings and developments, cannot take up more than 50% of your land beyond your home. This might not be an issue if you have a large garden, or an extensive plot of land. But if you already have sheds or other outbuildings on your land, you may have to demolish some older structures before you add anything new.

You can read the full government permitted development rights guidelines.

Properties Excluded From Permitted Development Rights

You may not have permitted development rights if your property is a listed building, or if it is located in a conservation area, an area of outstanding natural beauty, or a national park.

If your property is a listed building, or if it is located in any such area, then you should seek guidance and permission before you consider building a shepherd’s hut.

When Will You Need Planning Permission For Your Shepherd’s Hut?

You may need planning permission for your shepherd’s hut if:

  • The hut would not meet any of the criteria outlined above.
  • You intend to make money from your shepherd’s hut.

Permitted development rights do not extend to any structures you build for commercial use. This includes building shepherd’s huts for use as holiday accommodation. It may also include building a commercial hut to use as a home office, or as the premises for a home business.

Often, you may not necessarily need planning permission for the hut itself. The permission will be for “change of use” – meaning that you will be applying to change the use of your land from domestic, or agricultural, to commercial. This means that you will likely need to seek permission to build a shepherd’s hut on a plot of land that is separate from your main domestic property.

How To Get Planning Permission For Your Shepherd’s Hut

First, contact your local planning authority. You can find contact information for your local planning authority on the Planning Portal.

Tell your local planning authority about what you intend to build, where you intend to build it, and how you intend to use it. They will then be able to advise you on the type of application you may need to put together, including the key documents and drawings you will need to supply.

You may have to pay certain fees as part of the planning process. The planning authority may come back to you with questions about your application, and with requests for additional information.

What Else Will I Need To Build a Shepherd’s Hut?

Beyond planning permission, the most important thing to consider is insurance.

It is a very good idea to get dedicated insurance for your shepherd’s hut, regardless of where you build it, and how you intend to use it.

You will certainly need specialist insurance if you plan to lease your hut to holidaymakers. But even if you are building a shepherd’s hut for personal use in your back garden, a dedicated policy will help fill any gaps in cover that are not provided by your main home insurance policy.

Learn more about shepherd’s hut insurance, and what it covers.

Get Specialist Shepherd’s Hut Insurance From James Hallam

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who specialise in getting you the cover you need at a competitive price.

We will ensure you get full cover for your shepherd’s hut, wherever you build it, and however you use it. We will cover you whether you keep your shepherd’s hut on your own land, or on a separate plot of land.

Learn more about our specialist shepherd’s hut insurance and get a free quote today.

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