In the “HO-2000 world,” ISO has promulgated over 145 homeowners’ endorsements. Some of these endorsements take protection away (we want to stay away from those), some apply to specific exposures (such as home sharing) and others even clarify what the policy already says. But among this long list are great endorsements that are greatly underutilized…
Based on the dictionary meaning of “resident,” is there really an age limitation on kids away at college? Paragraph 5.a.(1) states that an insured is a relative who is a resident of your household. Paragraph 5.b.(1) states that a student who WAS a resident before MOVING OUT to attend school is an “insured.” It does…
What coverage does your insured have when they travel for vacation? More importantly, what coverage don’t they have? Although there is worldwide protection for the insured’s stuff, what are the liability limitations that could catch your insured off guard – costing them lots of money? That’s what this article discusses.
Trusts are often used as a means to avoid some of the issues related to probate and estate taxes. However, the lawyers rarely tell insureds that when a trust is set up changes must be made to the homeowners’ policy in the form of specific endorsements as the person’s relationship to the house has changed.…
The concept of actual cash value (ACV) is far more complicated than “replacement cost minus physical depreciation.” In fact, the meaning of replacement cost differs based on the state. To further complicate the “problem” with defining ACV is whether or not labor is depreciable. Again, the answer differs based on the state in which the…
Individuals who live in or own homes in a home association face increased financial risks from assessments. Personal lines policies cover some of the assessments, but increased limits of loss assessment coverage should be purchased where available, and individuals who live in a HOA should have their policy endorsed to include personal injury liability claims.
Once again, we find ourselves in the deeply political and emotional debate about guns, the second amendment, gun control, and safety. This discussion requires us to clear up some misconceptions about guns, insurance, and the place of the insurance industry. We may even have to deal with some misinformation.
ISO has changed the wording related to lawn mowers, golf carts and four-wheelers three times over the last several years. These changes, as you would expect, change the coverage provided. How do each versions of ISO’s homeowners’ policies compare? That’s what this article addresses.
When your insureds use Yelp, Twitter or even Facebook they open themselves up to charges of libel and defamation of character. Is your personal lines client protected? A Yelper is out $20,000 because of this problem.
Additional Living Expense is specifically limited in the HO policy; however, at least one group that undertakes to provide “expert” opinions believes that there is no limit. Be careful the advice you take and read the policy yourself rather than depending on others. The E&O claim you avoid could be your own.
