Understanding Liability Coverage in Your Home Insurance Policy

Liability coverage is one of the most essential parts of your homeowners insurance policy, but it’s often overlooked until something goes wrong.

What Is Liability Coverage and What Does It Cover?

Liability coverage may help pay legal and medical costs if you’re found responsible for injuries or property damage to others. It may also help with court judgments and settlements, depending on your policy limits. Examples of situations it may cover include:

• A guest slipping on your driveway and breaking a wrist

• Your kid hitting a baseball through a neighbor’s window

• Your dog biting someone at the park

• Legal expenses if you are sued over an accident at your home

What Are Common Exclusions?

Not everything is covered by liability insurance. Generally, policies will exclude coverage for the following:

• Injuries to people who live in your home

• Damage you cause on purpose

• Business-related accidents at home

• Liability from certain dog breeds or exotic pets (depending on the insurer)

It’s a good idea to read the fine print or ask your insurance agent about your policy’s exclusions.

How Do I File a Liability Claim?

If something happens and you think it might fall under liability coverage, here’s what to do:

• Document the incident—Take photos, gather witness statements, and write down what happened.

• Contact your insurance company— Call or log in to your account to start the claim process.

• Provide details—Be ready to share the event’s date, time, description and any supporting documents.

• Cooperate with the investigation—Your insurer may ask for more information or send someone to assess the situation.

• Stay in touch—Track your claim and respond to any follow-up questions quickly.

Contact Us

Butler's Insurance Agency LLC is here to help you learn more about liability coverage and your homeowners insurance. Contact us today for a free quote.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.