If you operate a home-based business, your current residential policy may not cover liabilities incurred during your daily operations. For example, if a client injures themselves on your property while visiting your home, your policy may not protect you from a lawsuit. Without protection, it may easily end up costing you thousands of dollars in liability and defence costs. Similarly, your computers, books and business equipment may not be covered from theft or damage.
If your insurance representative hasn't informed you of your coverage, then you might be left out in the cold when it's time to file a claim. Isn't it worth the small additional premium to add this protection for your peace of mind? The Neziol Group thinks so, and we'll advise you so you'll be informed and protected.
Umbrella liability is excess liability coverage that protects you in the event that your personal insurance policies (home, auto, watercraft, etc...) do not provide enough liability protection after an incident. For example, imagine that you have $1 million liability insurance on your automobile. While vacationing in Florida, you get involved in an accident and are sued for $1.2 million. Your insurance company will only pay $1 million in Canadian funds. You would be responsible for the balance, approximately $800,000 in Canadian dollars. If you had a $5 million umbrella policy, it would pay the balance of the claim up to $5 million.
Umbrella liability also provides protection for events that are typically excluded from your personal home insurance such as accusations of libel, slander, defamation of character or wrongful eviction by any of your dependant family members. In these cases, an umbrella policy covers all defence and court costs and any judgements up to your policy limit. Who needs umbrella liability? You don't need to be a millionaire to be sued like one. However, as your assets increase, you become more of a target for a large lawsuit. In addition, the more vehicles, drivers, watercraft and properties you have, the greater your chance of having an accident.
Depending on your exposure and how much coverage you want, the premium would range from $100 to $500 annually.