Understanding personal liability coverage: A guide to protecting your interests

by Carolyn Ross 11/18/2024

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Homeowners insurance is made up of multiple types of coverage. One of those coverages is personal liability coverage. This article provides a basic guide to understanding what liability insurance covers and its value. 

What does personal liability insurance cover?

Personal liability insurance provides financial coverage in case someone is injured on your property. This type of policy offers coverage to you and the members of your household. 

For example, imagine a visitor falls and is injured in your yard or home. If you’re found to be at fault for this injury, liability insurance covers the claim. 

Is personal liability insurance required for homeowners?

Personal liability insurance isn’t a requirement for homeowners. However, mortgage leaders will require loan borrowers to purchase this insurance to protect their investment. 

For example, let’s say someone has an accident in your home and decides to sue you. They could possibly go after your home as an asset. Lenders have invested in this asset, so they don’t want to compromise their stake. 

Do renters need personal liability insurance?

Many rental companies will require tenants to get renters insurance including liability coverage. This covers the same perils as standard liability insurance for homeowners. 

Accidents happen. Having liability insurance covers you and your household when they do. Even though liability insurance isn’t a requirement, having it can save you from paying out of pocket in the case of an emergency. 



About the Author
Author

Carolyn Ross

Carolyn Ross spent her career in the advertising world as a commercial photographer. She is no stranger to meeting challenging deadlines and working with many people in a fast paced environment. 

She has shot for various magazines such as Architectural Digest, Boston Globe Magazine, Wellesley Weston, South Shore life as well Boston Magazine to name a few. Her love of homes and visual spaces has evolved through the years and has lead her to expand her career. She currently serves on the board of a national organization: The American Society of Media Photographers for the New England chapter. She has been involved in the school art programs as well as teaching photography classes.

Carolyn's expert knowledge of staging and art direction is what differentiates her from other agents.  She has also taken her keen business background and artistic talents to successfully renovate numerous investment properties in the Metrowest area over the last several years. 

This is what inspires her and with determination and passion, she will bring these unique skills to your next real estate transaction.