Let Us Help You Float Your Boat with Great Coverage

From iii.org

Most companies provide limited coverage for property damage for small boats like small sail boats or small power boats with less than 25 miles per hour horse power under a homeowners or renters insurance policy. Coverage is usually about $1,000 or 10 percent of the home’s insured value and generally includes the boat, motor and trailer combined. Liability coverage is typically not included but can be added. Larger and faster boats and personal watercraft require a separate boat insurance policy. For physical loss or damage, coverage is through either an actual cash value policy or on an agreed amount value basis. These policies also provide broader liability protection than a homeowner’s policy.

Actual Cash Value policies pay for replacement costs less depreciation at the time of the loss. In the event of a total loss, used boat pricing guides and other resources are used to determine the vessel’s approximate market value. Partial losses are settled by taking the total cost of the repair less a percentage for depreciation.

Agreed Amount Value policies mean you and your insurer have agreed on the value of your vessel and in the event of a total loss you will be paid that amount. Agreed Amount Value policies also replace old items for new in the event of a partial loss, without any deduction for depreciation.

Physical damage exclusions might include normal wear and tear, damage from insects, mold, animals (such as sharks), zebra mussels, defective machinery or machinery damage.

Boat insurance also covers:

• Bodily injury—for injuries caused to another person
• Property damage—for damage caused to someone else’s property
• Guest passenger liability—for any legal expenses incurred by someone using the boat with the owner’s permission
• Medical payments—for injuries to the boat owner and other passengers
• Theft

Most companies offer liability limits that start at $15,000 and can be increased to $300,000. Typical policies include deductibles of $250 for property damage, $500 for theft and $1000 for medical payments. Higher limits may be available. Additional coverage can be purchased for trailers and other accessories. Boat owners may also consider purchasing an umbrella liability policy which will provide additional protection for their boat, home, and car. Boat owners should also inquire about discounts for the following:

• Diesel-powered craft, which are less hazardous than gasoline powered boats as they are less likely to explode
• Coast Guard approved fire extinguishers
• Ship-to-shore radios
• Two years of claims-free experience
• Multi-policies with the same insurer, such as a car, home or umbrella policy
• Safety education courses, such as those offered by the Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadrons, or the American Red Cross.

We are always ready to review or quote your boat or watercraft insurance, call your knowledgeable Hometown Independent Agent at 1-800-568- SAVE (7283) or email us at: service@hometowninsurance.com. Thank you!