What To Know About Insuring Your Secondary or Seasonal Home in Massachusetts

July 16, 2025

Summer might be prime time for lazy days at the lake or weekend getaways to the Cape. But if you own a second property, you already know those relaxing escapes come with extra responsibilities — especially when it comes to insurance. Whether you’re enjoying time at your retreat or locking it up for the offseason, having the right Massachusetts home insurance is critical for protecting your investment and your peace of mind.

Last month, we covered how to protect your home while you’re away on vacation. This time, we’re digging into what it takes to insure your secondary or seasonal home in Massachusetts — and why standard coverage often isn’t enough.

Why Second Homes Have Unique Risks

Insuring a seasonal property isn’t just a copy-paste of your primary policy. Secondary homes face higher risks, and insurers know it. These places often sit empty for weeks or even months, which means a leaky pipe or a break-in might not be discovered right away. A tree falling in the middle of a Nor’easter or an ice dam forming during a February thaw can do a lot more damage when no one’s around to intervene.

On top of that, many second homes are tucked away in rural or waterfront locations where emergency response times are longer. That lakeside getaway or mountain cabin might be dreamy, but it could take more time for fire crews or repair pros to reach the property in a crisis. These risk factors all affect how insurance carriers underwrite secondary home insurance, and they can mean higher premiums or policy exclusions if you’re not careful.

How Secondary Home Insurance Differs From Primary Coverage

Your regular homeowners policy might not stretch to cover a second residence. In most cases, you’ll need a separate policy altogether. Even when a policy is available, the coverage limits and terms are typically different. For instance, liability coverage may be reduced, and personal property protection may not include all the items you keep at your seasonal home.

It’s also common to see higher premiums due to the added risks of vacancy and weather-related damage. That’s why it’s important to work with an insurance agency that understands the nuances of Massachusetts home insurance for secondary properties and can help you add in optional coverages like:

• Vandalism and theft protection: For when your place is unoccupied
• Fire department service charges: Especially useful in remote areas
• Coverage for outbuildings: Sheds, garages, and guesthouses may not be automatically included

Essential Coverages To Consider

A good secondary home insurance policy should be more than just bare bones. Here are the coverages you’ll want to make sure are in place:

• Dwelling coverage: Covers damage to the structure itself from fire, storms, and more
• Personal property: Protects items like furniture, electronics, and appliances inside the home
• Liability protection: Pays for injuries that occur on your property, even if you’re not there
• Loss of use: Covers living expenses if your home is damaged and unlivable
• Flood insurance: Often required separately, especially near water or snow-prone areas

Remember, seasonal homes don’t just need protection in summer. Before you lock up for the season, check out our vacation season prep tips to make sure you’re not leaving risk behind with the keys.

Tips for Protecting Your Seasonal Home

Preventing a loss starts with smart habits. Consider installing smart home technology like motion-sensor cameras, leak detectors, or a thermostat that alerts you to freezing temps. If you’re not nearby, ask a neighbor or hire a local service to check on the property regularly.

Before winter sets in, shut off your water, drain the pipes, and secure all doors and windows. Keep your agent in the loop if you’re planning any upgrades or thinking of renting the home part-time. These details can affect your coverage — and your rate.

How Berlin Insurance Group Can Help

At Berlin Insurance Group, we make insuring secondary homes in Massachusetts simple. As an independent agency, we shop around — not just for the lowest price, but for the policy that makes the most sense for your lifestyle and property. Whether you’re bundling with auto, adding extra protection for a rental cabin, or just want to be sure your cottage is covered year-round, we’ve got the tools and carriers to build a plan that fits.

Owning a second home might be your reward for hard work, but keeping it protected shouldn’t feel like a full-time job. Let Berlin Insurance Group help you simplify it.

Contact us today to review your policy or get a personalized secondary home insurance quote.

About Berlin Insurance Group

At Berlin Insurance Group, we collaborate with top insurance partners nationwide to ensure you receive exceptional coverage from highly rated companies. As an independent agency, we have the flexibility to shop among dozens of carriers, each specializing in different types of risks, to find the best deals tailored to your specific needs. Whether it’s for your home, auto, or business, contact us today for a customized quote.