Chapter Overview: Atypical Claims and Your Homeowners Insurance
Most homeowners are familiar with common insurance claims for property damage or personal liability, but certain situations may lead to more unusual claims that standard policies might not fully address. Atypical claims can involve issues such as libel or defamation, incidents related to household employees, volunteer activities, or situations involving trusts and estates.
This chapter provides an overview of these unique scenarios, helping homeowners understand how their policies may apply and what additional coverage options could be beneficial.
Articles in This Chapter
1. Libel, Slander & Defamation
Claims involving libel, slander, or defamation can arise if you are accused of making false statements that damage someone’s reputation. This article will cover:
What Constitutes Defamation: The basics of libel (written statements) and slander (spoken statements) and how they can result in liability claims.
When Homeowners Insurance May Apply: How Personal Liability Coverage can sometimes protect you in these situations, along with common Policy exclusions.
Additional Coverage Options: Information on personal injury endorsements or umbrella policies for added protection in cases of defamation claims.
2. Household Employees
Hiring household employees, such as nannies, caretakers, or gardeners, introduces unique liability risks. This article will cover:
Understanding Employer Liability: Common risks associated with household employees, including potential injuries and allegations of wrongful treatment.
Insurance Coverage Options: How certain homeowners policies address employee-related incidents, and when workers' compensation or employment practices liability insurance may be necessary.
Compliance Considerations: Guidance on legal requirements for homeowners employing household staff, including proper documentation and payroll considerations.
3. Volunteer Activities
If you volunteer in your community, there may be times when you need liability protection in case of an accident. This article will cover:
Liability Risks in Volunteer Roles: Common scenarios where liability claims may arise, such as accidents while driving on behalf of a charity or incidents during community events.
How Homeowners Insurance Can Help: The extent to which personal liability coverage might apply to volunteer activities, and the limitations to be aware of.
Additional Endorsements for Volunteers: Options for additional liability coverage specifically for volunteer work, such as umbrella policies or endorsements that extend coverage for specific activities.
4. Incidents Involving Trusts & Estates
When property is held in a trust or Estate, liability issues may arise that affect beneficiaries or trustees. This article will cover:
Understanding Liability for Trusts and Estates: Common incidents involving trust-owned property or estate responsibilities, such as tenant-related issues or property maintenance claims.
How Insurance Policies May Apply: Whether homeowners insurance policies extend to trusts and estates, and the types of coverage that may be necessary for trustees or estate executors.
Additional Coverage for Trusts and Estates: Specialized insurance options that address liability risks specific to trust-owned properties and estate management responsibilities.
Learn More
Atypical claims are unique scenarios that may not be fully addressed by a standard homeowners insurance policy. By understanding the specific risks associated with defamation, household employees, volunteer activities, and trusts and estates, homeowners can make informed decisions about their insurance needs.
This chapter provides valuable insights into when additional coverage or endorsements may be beneficial, allowing you to safeguard against less common, but potentially costly, liability claims.