
Common Household Items That Could Void Your Insurance: What You Need to Know
Home insurance is a crucial safeguard for your property, offering peace of mind and financial protection in the event of unexpected damage or loss. However, what many homeowners may not realize is that certain common household items and modifications can jeopardize this protection, potentially voiding their insurance coverage without their knowledge. Understanding what these are and how to navigate the risks can save you from a world of financial strain and surprises. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Trampolines and Swimming Pools
While trampolines and swimming pools can provide endless hours of entertainment, they are often viewed by insurance companies as “attractive nuisances.” These items increase the risk of injury on your property, which in turn can lead to higher liability claims. Some insurers may exclude these items from coverage altogether or require additional safety measures and higher liability coverage.
2. Certain Breeds of Dogs
Pet ownership can also impact your home insurance policy. Some insurance companies have lists of dog breeds they consider more likely to bite or cause injury, which could lead to increased premiums or denial of liability coverage for incidents involving those breeds. It’s important to check with your insurer about their policy on pet ownership and whether specific breeds could affect your coverage.
3. High-Risk Recreational Equipment
Equipment such as skate ramps or zip lines on your property can also be seen as attractive nuisances. They can increase the likelihood of accidents, raising your liability risk. Insurers might require additional safety measures, increase your premiums, or exclude such equipment from coverage.
4. Wood-Burning Stoves and Fireplaces
While a wood-burning stove or fireplace can add warmth and charm to your home, it can also increase the risk of fire. Insurance companies might require an inspection or certification by a professional to ensure that the installation is safe and complies with local building codes. Failing to comply could void your coverage in the event of a fire related to these heat sources.
5. Home-Based Businesses
Running a business from your home introduces a set of risks that typical home insurance policies don’t cover. From increased foot traffic leading to potential liability claims to the need for specialized equipment coverage, a standard home insurance policy may not suffice. Special endorsements or a separate business insurance policy might be necessary to fully protect your home-based business activities.
How to Protect Your Coverage
Be Transparent: Always be upfront with your insurance provider about any significant changes in your home, including the addition of any items or modifications mentioned above.
Understand Your Policy: Thoroughly review your insurance policy to understand what is and isn’t covered. Look for any exclusions or conditions that could affect your coverage.
Seek Professional Advice: If you’re unsure about how certain items in your home could impact your insurance, consult with your insurance agent or a professional. They can provide guidance and help you adjust your policy if necessary.
Implement Safety Measures: Taking proactive steps to reduce risks, such as installing a fence around a pool or securing a safety net for a trampoline, can help mitigate potential issues with your insurer.
Your home insurance is there to protect you, but it’s important to be aware of how your home’s contents and any modifications can impact your coverage. By staying informed and taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure that your insurance remains valid and effective, providing you with the protection you need for your home and peace of mind.
Call our office for a free review. Please contact us or give us a call to learn more. You can also request a quote if you’re ready to start on a policy. Valley oaks Insurance Agency is proud to provide insurance in Roseville, Sacramento, Lincoln, Granite Bay, Rancho Cordova, and Folsom, CA. We also serve other areas in the state.
The information shared in this blog is provided and written on an opinion basis and for informational purposes, they do solely represent the opinions of Valley Oaks Insurance.