Is Pet Damage Covered by Your Homeowners Insurance?

Pets add a lot of joy to our homes, but they can also introduce certain liabilities, especially when they cause damage. It’s important to know how your homeowners insurance may help in these situations.

Pet Damage to Your Property Generally, standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover damage caused by your pets to your own property. For example, if your dog destroys your furniture or your cat scratches your walls, you will typically need to handle the costs yourself. Monitoring your pets and implementing preventive strategies can help minimize potential damage.

Liability Coverage for Damages Caused by Pets Your homeowners insurance is more likely to provide coverage under its liability provisions. If your pet harms another person or damages someone else’s property, this part of your policy may cover the associated costs. For instance, if your dog bites someone or causes property damage during a visit to another home, your insurance could help cover medical bills or repair costs.

Breed-Specific Considerations Be aware that some insurers may impose restrictions or exclusions for certain dog breeds considered higher risk. Check with your insurance provider to see if any breed-specific clauses might affect your coverage.

Options for Additional Coverage If you’re concerned about potential damages caused by your pets, consider looking into additional insurance options. While pet insurance mainly covers veterinary costs, some policies also offer coverage for damages your pet might cause to your property.

Pets bring immense joy but also require careful management, especially concerning insurance coverage. If you have any questions about your homeowners insurance policy or need further information, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Contact our team at 360-254-7166 for a comprehensive quote and tailored advice. We’re here to ensure that you have the appropriate coverage to protect every member of your family, including the furry ones.