As a homeowner, you have several responsibilities. From keeping the interior of your home in safe working order for your family to keep the exterior property in safe conditions as well. While many may not consider the exterior a priority, if an accident should happen, you are responsible. NH liability insurance provides financial protection against such risks. Whether someone entering your property experiences a slip and fall accident or your property sustains damage from a storm, liability coverage umbrellas various situations.
A homeowner’s responsibility
Many believe that acts of nature should be left without blame. However, if the act occurs on your property (inside or out) you are considered the responsible party. As you can imagine, damages and the cost associated with them can quickly add up causing financial burden to your family. Below are a few common situations that are often misunderstood by homeowners when it concerns who is responsible:
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Unattended repairs
Neglecting needed repair work for one reason or another creates a liability situation. Whether it’s loose shutters or roofing shingles, wires hanging from the house, or even cracks in your driveway or walkway, you are ultimately responsible should any type of injury caused due to these conditions. When in doubt, the best solution is always to repair the problem.
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Unkempt property
We’ve all seen it – yards cluttered with old building materials, unused tools, broken down cars, etc. Even a single ladder that is overlooked can cause risk and create a liability case against the homeowner. It’s imperative that anything that may cause harm to a visitor be taken care of. Another common element is slippery walkways. An act of nature, but you as the homeowner are responsible to make your property safe.
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Pets
You pet is part of the family, but they can also be unpredictable. No matter what the breed or how well you think your animal is trained, you are the one responsible for their actions. Should a bite occur on your property, or physical damage to others property happen (fences, etc.) you will be held liable for those actions regardless of what caused the animal to react.
A liability is defined as “a legal or financial obligation.” While the above instances cover some of the most common liability cases, there are, of course, several other situations that may come into play. Typically though, a homeowner is only held liability if they fail to ensure the safety of others.
What NH liability insurance may cover
Under your homeowner’s insurance, you will find the liability portion and what is covered. Coverage varies depending on the specifics of the policy and state of the insured property. Below are a few areas that your liability protection may cover:
- Medical expenses incurred by the injured party
- The cost to repair another’s person property
- Should legal representation be required, your liability insurance may also cover a portion of legal defense costs.
- In some cases, defamation may be covered
If you are uncertain about what, or if, you are carrying NH liability insurance, it’s time to give Morin Insurance Agency a call. For decades, our team of highly knowledgeable, trained, and experienced agents have helped protect homeowners from financial devastation. Call today for your free quote (603) 875-1200.
