Written by Erik Windrow
For many, a beach house isn't just a property; it's a dream. It's sun-drenched mornings, salty air, and the promise of escape. But if that dream home is left unprotected, it can quickly become a nightmare. At WatchTower Home Service, we've seen firsthand how a common oversight—the "resort home" insurance gap—leaves these precious properties far more vulnerable than most homeowners realize.
You might assume your beach house insurance is robust, similar to the coverage on your primary residence. However, the reality is often quite different. Several key factors contribute to this gap, making your coastal retreat a prime target for unexpected damage and costly repairs.
Coastal properties are beautiful, but they face a relentless assault from nature that inland homes simply don't.
Salt Corrosion: The constant exposure to salt in the air and sea spray accelerates the deterioration of exterior materials, HVAC systems, plumbing, and even electronics. This isn't just cosmetic; it can lead to structural issues and system failures.
Humidity & Mold: High humidity is a breeding ground for mold and mildew, particularly in homes that might be closed up for periods. Mold can cause significant structural damage and pose health risks.
Storm Activity: Beach homes are on the front lines for hurricanes, tropical storms, and nor'easters. Wind, storm surge, and heavy rain can cause catastrophic damage, and standard policies often have specific exclusions or high deductibles for these events.
Pest Infestations: Coastal environments are often teeming with pests, from termites attracted to damp wood to rodents seeking shelter. An unoccupied home is an open invitation.
One of the biggest differences between your primary home and your beach house is how often it's occupied. Many standard homeowner's policies contain "vacancy" or "unoccupancy" clauses that can severely limit or even void coverage if a property is left vacant for an extended period (often 30-60 days).
While your insurer might understand you don't live there year-round, the specifics of these clauses can be tricky. A burst pipe in an unoccupied home, for instance, could go unnoticed for weeks, leading to extensive damage that your policy might not fully cover due to the vacancy clause.
If you rent out your beach house, even for short-term vacation rentals, you introduce another layer of risk and insurance complexity. Standard homeowner's policies are not designed for commercial activity. You'll likely need specialized landlord insurance or a commercial policy to cover:
Damage caused by tenants
Liability for accidents involving renters
Loss of rental income due to damage
Without the correct coverage, a single incident involving a renter could lead to substantial financial loss.
This "resort home" insurance gap isn't just about having less coverage; it's about having the wrong kind of coverage for the unique challenges of a coastal property. That's where WatchTower Home Service comes in.
We don't sell insurance, but we are your eyes and ears on the ground, providing proactive protection that complements and strengthens your insurance coverage. Our comprehensive home watch services are specifically designed for resort and secondary homes. We provide:
Regular Inspections: We conduct routine checks for signs of water leaks, mold growth, pest activity, storm damage, and system malfunctions, catching issues before they escalate.
Post-Storm Assessments: After significant weather events, we're there to assess damage, document findings for insurance claims, and secure your property.
Vendor Coordination: We can arrange and oversee necessary repairs or maintenance, ensuring qualified professionals address issues promptly.
Occupancy Monitoring: Our presence can help mitigate the risks associated with vacancy, providing peace of mind and potentially satisfying some insurance requirements.
Your beach house is an investment in your lifestyle and your future. Don't let the "resort home" insurance gap turn your dream into a liability. Partner with WatchTower Home Service to ensure your coastal sanctuary is monitored, maintained, and protected, allowing you to enjoy your slice of paradise worry-free.
Ready to safeguard your resort home? Contact WatchTower Home Service today for a personalized plan to protect your coastal property.
Published: February 26, 2026