Vacation Home Insurance in Vermont

Owning a vacation or second home in Vermont is a dream for many—whether it’s a peaceful lakeside cottage, a mountain chalet near the slopes, or a tucked-away cabin in the woods. But with that dream comes the need to protect your investment. At Lonergan & Thomas, we help Vermont homeowners understand the unique risks that come with seasonal or secondary properties and guide them through insurance options that can offer peace of mind.

What Is Vacation Home Insurance?

Vacation home insurance is a type of property insurance that applies to homes not used as a primary residence. These homes may be occupied seasonally, on weekends, or during extended vacations. Coverage options may help protect against property damage, liability concerns, and potential losses while the home is unoccupied.

Because vacation homes are often vacant for long periods, they may be more vulnerable to issues like water damage, vandalism, or unnoticed repairs. That’s why it’s important to work with an agency familiar with the unique needs of Vermont second homeowners.

How Is Second Home Insurance Different From Primary Home Insurance?

Second home insurance typically comes with different underwriting guidelines and risk considerations compared to primary homeowners insurance. Insurance carriers may treat second homes as higher risk than a full-time residence due to factors like seasonal use, intermittent occupancy, and location in remote or high-risk areas.

At Lonergan & Thomas, we help clients in Vermont understand how their second home’s usage and location could impact their insurance needs. Whether your property is in Stowe, Lake Champlain, or the Northeast Kingdom, we aim to provide guidance that fits your situation.

What Types Of Properties Can Be Covered?

Vacation home or second home insurance may apply to a variety of property types in Vermont. These can include:

• Lakefront cottages
• Ski chalets and condos near resorts
• Rustic cabins in wooded areas
• Country homes used for seasonal retreats
• Farmhouses with historic character

We’ll work with you to explore what types of coverage are available based on how you use the property and its specific features.

What Coverage Options Are Typically Considered?

Depending on the insurer and your property details, vacation home insurance may include several types of coverage. Commonly considered options include:

• Dwelling Protection: May help with repair or rebuild costs due to fire, storm damage, or other covered events.
• Personal Property Coverage: May protect items kept at the home, such as furniture or recreational gear.
• Liability Coverage: May offer protection in case a guest is injured on the premises.
• Loss Of Use: May cover additional living expenses if the home becomes temporarily uninhabitable due to a covered event.

Some carriers may also provide optional endorsements for rental income loss or coverage for outbuildings such as sheds, boathouses, or detached garages.

How Do Insurance Needs Vary By Location In Vermont?

From lakeside retreats in the Champlain Valley to ski homes in Killington or Smugglers’ Notch, location plays a big role in your second home’s risk profile. For instance:

• Mountain homes may face greater exposure to snow load and ice damming.
• Lake properties could require special considerations for flooding or water damage.
• Remote cabins might take longer to access in emergencies, which can impact claims processing.

We’ve been serving Vermont for years and understand how geography influences insurance considerations. We take the time to assess your property’s location and suggest options accordingly.

Do I Need Insurance If I Only Use The Home Part Of The Year?

Yes—if your second home is vacant for long periods, insurance becomes even more important. Empty homes may be more susceptible to damage that goes unnoticed or is discovered too late. Whether it’s a broken pipe in winter or a fallen tree during a summer storm, prompt coverage may help avoid major expenses.

Additionally, if you allow friends or family to stay in the home while you’re not there, liability coverage could be a crucial factor. Our agents can walk you through these scenarios and help you make informed decisions.