Vacant land insurance questions, answered
Do I need it?
Is vacant land insurance compulsory?
No. But owning land can make you legally liable if someone is hurt there or the land damages a neighbour's property.
Can I be liable if I never visit the land?
Yes. Liability comes from owning and controlling the land, not from being there.
Am I liable if a trespasser is hurt?
You can be, if their presence was reasonably foreseeable, such as a regular shortcut.
Does a "No trespassing" sign protect me?
It helps show you managed the risk, but it doesn't remove your liability.
Does my home insurance cover my vacant block?
Sometimes. Some contents policies cover a new block you'll build on, for a limited time. Check your policy wording.
Does my landlord policy cover land between tenants?
Landlord policies are for buildings and often restrict cover when vacant. Bare land usually needs its own policy.
Does my lender require it?
Often, yes. Your lender may require vacant land liability and ask to be named as an interested party on the policy. Tell us your lender's details and we'll add them.
What's covered
What does vacant land liability cover?
Compensation you're legally liable for when someone is injured or their property is damaged because of your land, plus legal costs.
Are legal costs on top of the limit?
Yes. Defence costs for covered claims are paid in addition to your limit.
Does it cover my own fence or shed?
No. It covers other people's property. Your own property needs property insurance.
Does it cover fire spreading to a neighbour?
Yes, if you're legally liable for the damage.
Does it cover trees falling on a neighbour's property?
Yes, if you're legally liable for the damage.
Does it cover an empty house on the land?
The online quote can cover vacant residential buildings. Renovation or demolition work isn't covered.
Does it cover hobby farms or agistment?
Yes, hobby farms and agistment of up to 100 cattle or horses can be quoted online.
Does it cover camping or markets on my land?
Yes, as the landowner, for eligible low-intensity uses.
What isn't covered?
Construction work, your own property, deliberate acts, gradual pollution and asbestos. See the full list.
Price and limits
How much does it cost?
About $256 a year all-in for $20 million cover on a typical suburban block.
What affects the price?
Your cover limit, block size, how the land is used and anything unusual about it.
Which limit should I choose?
Most owners choose $20 million. It costs about $77 a year more than $5 million on a typical block.
What's the excess?
You can choose from several excess options. A higher excess lowers your premium but means you pay more towards a claim. Your excess is shown on your quote and schedule.
Can I pay by instalments?
Yes. You can pay annually or by instalments.
Is GST and stamp duty included in the price?
Yes, the total you pay includes GST, stamp duty and a $27.50 policy fee plus GST.
Buying
How long does it take?
About two minutes online.
When does cover start?
On the start date you choose when you buy.
What do I need to get a quote?
The land's address, size, how it's used and your claims history.
Can a company, trust or SMSF buy it?
Yes. Insure in the name of the owner or trustee.
Who can buy it?
Customers based in Australia, for land in Australia.
How big a block can you cover online?
Up to 460 hectares. Larger land is quoted by a broker.
Who is the insurer?
Your policy is arranged by Pocket. The insurer is named in your quote, Product Disclosure Statement and schedule.
Managing your policy
Can I cover more than one block?
Yes, on one policy.
Can I add a block later?
Yes. Just get in touch and we'll talk you through it.
Does it renew automatically?
Yes, each year, unless you or the insurer cancel.
Can I cancel?
Any time, with a pro rata refund and no cancellation fee.
Is there a cooling-off period?
Yes, 14 days for a full refund if you haven't claimed.
What if I change how the land is used?
Tell us. Changes can affect your cover and price.
Claims
What should I do if someone is hurt on my land?
Help them, record what happened, and contact us as soon as possible.
Should I admit fault?
No. Don't admit fault or offer payment. Let the insurer handle it.
How do I make a claim?
Call Pocket on 1300 475 092 or email hello@withpocket.com.au.
Who handles the claim?
The insurer assesses the claim, and Pocket manages it for you as your broker.
Building, selling and next steps
What happens when I start building?
Vacant land cover doesn't cover construction. Arrange contract works cover before work begins.
What happens when I sell?
Cancel from settlement and get a pro rata refund.
Can you help with home insurance once I've built?
Yes. Pocket is a broker and can arrange home, landlord and other cover.
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