Do you know what is – and isn’t – covered on your homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policy? While most people have insurance addressing personal injury claims on their property, coverage can vary. Policies differ, locations differ, but these are common areas to review.
Physical Property Injuries
Are you aware of any areas that could lead to injuries on your property? If so, let guests or service employees know before an accident happens. Repair or mark the area as a hazard. In some cases you may not have noticed the danger in advance. In either case, personal injury claims may be covered under your home insurance policy. Some typical reasons for claims are:
• Slippery floors
• Steps or walking surfaces that are uneven, unexpected, or defective
• Obstacles, such as toys, pets, or throw rugs
Injury from Pets
An injury from your pet may be covered under your home policy whether the animal was provoked or not. Generally, no other proof besides the injury is required.
What is NOT Covered?
• Injuries due to weather conditions such as ice, rain, or tornados are usually not covered because the owner is not considered liable for weather events. However, under some circumstances, insurance may cover the accident. An example might be a fall on ice created by the owner neglecting to shovel or clear the porch.
• If an intruder unexpectedly assaults a guest, or one guest assaults another, these injuries may not be covered.
• If you, as the property owner, injure a guest intentionally, it is unlikely to be covered by insurance; however, you are personally liable.
This is only a brief overview. To be secure, familiarize yourself with your policy – not only in what it does and does not cover, but also the liability dollar amounts. Consulting with your insurance agent regularly for questions and review is always a good idea.
