Home Insurance Articles

Pets and Home Insurance

2009-10-29

Your family pet, whether it is a dog, cat or even a boa constrictor, is often seen as a member of your family. When it comes to home insurance, however, this may not always be the case. Having a pet can be seen as both good and bad in the eyes of insurance companies (often at the same time) and can have an effect on your home insurance premiums. Understanding what it means to have a pet as a home owner will help you make the decision on whether buying that new puppy for your child's birthday is the wisest decision.

Is damage from pets covered by home insurance?

This really depends on the circumstance. If your pet damages your personal property, including your home, then the answer is probably no. If the damage is to your neighbor's property then the answer is maybe. It is very hard to say without knowing specific information of the circumstance of the damage and a home insurance agent would know best. If you are looking for added protection in the event your pet damages other property it would be wise to look into personal liability protection.

Will owning a pet have an effect on my insurance premiums?

When people look into owning a pet, one of the things that is often considered is how much protection the pet will offer. But bigger and badder may not always be the best solution if you are looking for affordable home insurance. In fact, many dogs are considered high-risk and may cause your monthly insurance premiums to be significantly higher. Some of these breeds could include:

• Pit Bulls - Though loved by their owners and advocacy groups, the American Pit Bull is the current poster boy for dangerous pets. Due to their history for being bred for fighting, many insurance companies will not even offer personal liability home insurance in some states for this dog.
• Rottweilers - Known for their high intelligence and loyalty, Rots make wonderful family pets as well as guard dogs. They are prone to bites for unknown and uninvited guests, however, and this makes them a high-risk for insurance companies.
• German Shepherds - Though they are the most common dog used by police because of their courage, intelligence and loyalty. Many home insurance companies don't see it this way, however, and may increase your premiums if you own this beautiful pet.
• Wolf-Hybrids - Though owning wolf-hybrids is still illegal in some states, owners claim that the animals are loving and loyal. Because of their unpredictability as well as their resistance to rabies inoculations, home insurance companies are still not fans of the Wolfdog.

Though owning a pet comes with a great deal of responsibility, they still make wonderful companions for your family. Once you decide if a dog is right for your home, let HomeInsurance.org help you find adequate coverage to protect your home investment. Just answer a few simple questions and we will bring back multiple home insurance quotes so you can decide which policy is right for you.