Who qualifies as an "Insured" in your homeowner's policy? The answer might surprise you. Let's break down this crucial aspect of your coverage:
Primary Insureds
Typically, an "Insured" includes:
You (the policyholder)
Relatives living with you (by blood or marriage)
Individuals under a specific age (usually around 21) for whom you or a residing relative are responsible
Students Away at College
Full-time students are usually considered "Insured" if they:
Were residing relatives before leaving for college
Are under a specific age (typically around 24)
Elderly Parents
Good news: Elderly parents or in-laws residing with you generally qualify as "Insured."
Live-in Companions and Their Children
Here's where it gets tricky:
Live-in companions or significant others and their children typically don't qualify as "Insured"
They should consider obtaining their own policy (e.g., a renter's policy)
Who's Not Usually Covered
The following individuals are unlikely to be considered "Insured":
Non-relative house guests
Tenants renting a room
Residence employees (e.g., nannies)
Why This Matters
Understanding who's considered an "Insured" is crucial because:
Non-insureds may have NO coverage under your policy for their personal belongings
This includes live-in companions, their dependents, non-relative guests, tenants, and household employees
Key Takeaways:
Check the Definitions section of your policy for specifics
Family members living with you are typically covered
Non-relatives usually aren't covered, even if they live with you
Encourage non-covered individuals to get their own insurance
Remember, policies can vary. Always review your specific policy or consult with an insurance professional or public adjuster to understand your coverage fully.
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