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Homeowners Insurance Policies ( Ch. 22 & 23)

Homeowners Insurance Policies

Chapter Overview

  • Course: RMIN 4000
  • Instructor: Daniel Brown
  • Institution: Terry College of Business, University of Georgia

Section I: Coverage Types

  • Coverage A: Dwelling

    • Covers the house and structures attached to it.
    • Includes materials intended for construction.
    • Excludes land coverage.
  • Coverage B: Other Structures

    • Includes other structures on the premises that are separated from the dwelling by clear space.
    • Examples: Detached garage, shed on a foundation, fences.
    • Excludes structures rented out or used for business.
  • Coverage C: Personal Property

    • Covers personal property owned or used by the insured, applicable worldwide.
    • Coverage at another residence or in storage is limited to 10% of Coverage C or $1,000, whichever is greater.
  • Coverage D: Loss of Use

    • Protection when the residence cannot be used due to a loss.
    • Includes: Additional living expenses, fair rental value, and prohibited use.

Section II: Liability Coverages

  • Coverage E: Personal Liability

    • Protects against claims or lawsuits for bodily injury or property damage caused by negligence.
    • Pays amounts up to policy limits for which the insured is found liable.
    • Insurer covers defense costs.
  • Coverage F: Medical Payments to Others

    • Covers reasonable expenses for injuries to others occurring on the insured location or by the insured's activities or owned animal.
    • Not dependent on legal liability.

Homeowners Policy Forms

  • HO-2: Broad Form
  • HO-3: Special Form
  • HO-4: Contents Broad Form (Renters)
  • HO-5: Comprehensive Form
  • HO-6: Unit-Owners Form (Condo)
  • HO-8: Modified Coverage Form

Forms Comparison: Coverage Details

Form TypeDwelling Loss SettlementPersonal PropertyDwelling/Other Structures
HO-4 (Renters)N/ANamed PerilsN/A
HO-6 (Condo)N/ANamed PerilsN/A
HO-8Named PerilsNamed PerilsACV
HO-2Named PerilsNamed PerilsRC
HO-3Open PerilsNamed PerilsRC
HO-5Open PerilsOpen PerilsRC

Major Rating Variables for Homeowners Insurance

  • Construction Type: Material and structure design.
  • Geographic Location: Risk of natural disasters.
  • Fire Protection: Proximity to fire services and hydrants.
  • Reconstruction Cost: Assessing replacement value.
  • Form Type: Type of homeowners policy chosen.
  • Year of Construction: Age and condition of the home.
  • Deductible: Amount the insured pays before coverage applies.
  • Insurance Score: Risk evaluation based on credit history and other factors.
  • Roof Factors: Type and condition of roofing material.