Home Insurance and pet damage: An overview

Dogs and cats, we just couldn’t do without them! However, being a pet owner can have implications for your home insurance policy. Insurers consider pets, exotic animals, farm animals and domesticated wild animals as an additional risk to insure…

Generally speaking, your pets are considered personal property and are therefore protected in the same way as your other belongings against specific risks. Be sure to check the total amount of coverage offered by your insurer. Finally, your insurer may also cover certain damages caused by your pets, whether they be to property or bodily injury, depending on the terms and conditions of your insurance policy. There are also nuances to consider for tenants.

Pet owners’ responsibilities

Notify your insurance company

When purchasing home insurance coverage, it’s the responsibility of the tenant, homeowner or condominium owner to inform the insurer if they own a pet. It’s the best way to ensure your peace of mind. If you don’t disclose your pet’s presence in your home, your insurance company could refuse to compensate you in the event of an incident involving your pet.

On the other hand, you should be aware that your insurer’s acceptance is not guaranteed. Your insurer may refuse or increase your premium, especially if your dog has bitten someone before, or if it’s a breed that’s known to pose an additional risk.

Take all reasonable precautions

The second most important responsibility of a pet owner is to be vigilant. If you are lucky enough to have a four-legged friend, you should always take reasonable precautions to limit the risk of an incident. Walking your dog on a leash or having your dog trained are examples of expected behaviours.

At all times, whether in public or at home, a dog must be under the control of someone capable of handling it. Otherwise, if a dog were to bite a cyclist, for example, the owner could face criminal negligence charges. A claim filed with the insurer could then be denied.

Comply with legal requirements regarding pet ownership

In Quebec, regulations govern dog ownership. These regulations help dogs, humans and other pets live together peacefully. Moreover, any bite inflicted by a potentially dangerous dog must now be reported to the authorities by a doctor or veterinarian.

Another example: It is now mandatory for dog owners or guardians to register their pets with the local municipality. The same principle applies to cats and other pets in some municipalities. Find out more!

How am I covered by my insurance?

Civil liability coverage for property damage or bodily injury

Civil liability coverage, included in every insurance policy, can protect you against property damage or bodily injury caused by your pet to others. What if a mishap occurs? Your insurance company will cover the cost of your defence if your pet causes injury to someone or damage to property. Notify your insurer as soon as possible after the incident.

Anyone who owns a pet or is responsible for the custody, control or supervision of a pet can be liable for the animal’s actions. Your dog decides to dig tunnels in your neighbour’s yard? He devours the crops in your neighbour’s garden? You can file a claim with your insurer to compensate the unlucky person for the damage to their property.

Pet-inflicted injuries have been making headlines for the past few years. They are also covered under your civil liability insurance policy. If your dog bites someone or injures another animal, whether at home or in a park, your civil liability coverage under your home insurance could cover the cost of your defence as the pet owner. If the facts are true, your insurer will probably have to pay compensation to the injured party.

What about damage to my own furniture?

A wooden table gnawed on, or the fabric of a sofa torn: two classics! Damage caused by dogs and cats to property in my home can be covered by an “all-risk” policy. However, you will have to pay the deductible. Is it worth it? To fully understand the extent of your coverage, and the exclusions and limitations that apply, consult your policy.

For example, marks and scratches that appear on furniture over time are excluded. Damage caused by certain animals, such as rodents, is also excluded!

Contact your trusted insurer

We understand how much you love your four-legged friends! Whether you’re looking for advice on taking your pet on the road, or have questions about your home insurance coverage, feel free to contact us. Like your furry friends… we’re here to make it better!