How Do My Pets Affect My Homeowner’s Insurance?

Love for your pets is natural since they are members of your family. The remaining objective when it comes to your pets can be difficult. It is the job of your insurance agent to inject some objectivity into the situation when discussing home insurance needs. Curtis Miller Insurance can answer questions about pets and liability for the residents of Parkersburg, WV.

Dogs

Dogs are the pets that most often affect home insurance. Be aware that breed and prior actions of the animal may impact cost and coverage requirements.

Keep your dog’s license current. If your dog is over three months old, you must obtain a license by January 1st every year. The annual fee is discounted for animals that are spayed and neutered. 

Take responsibility and action if your dog has a history of aggressive behavior. If your dog is labeled a dangerous dog by the courts, it means they have attacked a person or domestic animal without provocation and caused injury or death. You are required to carry at least $50,000 in liability insurance coverage in the Commonwealth. Any dangerous dog must be safely contained and is required to be muzzled if it is taken out into the public.  

Police dogs, guide dogs for the blind, deaf, and handicapped, and farm dogs (depending on circumstances) are exempt. If a person is attacked while trespassing or after provoking the dog, you should be protected. Check with your agent to be sure.  

Exotic and Non-Traditional Pets

Any damage caused by pot-bellied pigs and farm pets is usually covered under your liability policy, but you will want to double check with your agent. Exotic animals could be different. The type of animal can potentially affect the level and type of insurance you need.

Your agent at Curtis Miller Insurance can help you determine if your regular home insurance policy in Parkersburg, WV will be enough or if you will need additional coverage.