Virtual University

The Homeowners Policy and Sewer Backup

Homes and the personal property within them are the frequent victims of sewer backup that originates on or off the residence premises. The question is, to what extent, if any,…

Exterior view of modern apartment building offering luxury rental units in Silicon Valley; Livermore, East San Francisco bay area, California

Squirrely Building Damage Claim

A squirrel entered a community center building that had just undergone a $2 million renovation. It either gnawed some wiring or otherwise came in contact with the electrical system, causing…

HO Gun Liability Coverage

Concealed weapon and other gun laws seem to be proliferating around the country. Sooner or later, an insured or prospect is going to ask you if their insurance covers them…

2014 Changes in the ISO Homeowners Program

ISO has introduced two new HO endorsements and revised one HO endorsement. The revised endorsement seeks to clarify coverage for water back-up and sump discharge or overflow. The new endorsements…

College Graduates Move Back Home

A Pew Research study showed that 42% of college grads age 18-29 were living with their parents. Many of them attempted to make it on their own but, given economic…

Row of colorful, red, yellow, blue, white, green painted residential townhouses, homes, houses with brick patio gardens in summer

Wear and Tear and the HO Policy

An insured’s party guest wore spiked high heels that left major dents in his home’s hardwood floors. The adjuster has denied the damage, citing the “marring” and “wear and tear”…

BROWSTOWN, MICHIGAN-SEPTEMBER 20, 2019: Condominium homes in an upscale Detroit suburb.

Insuring Grave Markers

Vandalism of grave markers at cemeteries is, unfortunately, a common loss exposure. When this happens, where is insurance coverage (if any) likely to be found? This article addresses the basic…

question mark on a sticky note against grained wood

Off-Premises Mobility for the Elderly

An increasing variety of motorized vehicles are being used to assist the elderly and handicapped in gaining mobility away from their residences. The question is, do they have any homeowners…

Which size of house can you afford? Concept shot: four differently sized models of houses on a blue background. Copy space available, web banner format

Jet Skis

Some of your customers probably own jet skis. Even more will rent or use one if they live or vacation near the coast, lakes or waterways. When they rent or…

Red jet ski in the sea