5 Surprising Things Covered By Homeowners' Insurance with Advocate Mark Stewart

You probably are already aware that your homeowners’ insurance (or renters’ insurance) covers accidents that happen on your property—such as slip-and-fall incidents or damage to the structure of your house—but did you know that it may also cover many kinds of accidents that happen away from your property as well?

We sat down with Advocate Mark Stewart to discuss some of the more surprising things that may be covered by your homeowners’ insurance policy.

Rogue Golf Balls

If you’ve spent any amount of time on a golf course, chances are you’ve seen (or taken) some bad shots. And we mean bad. It’s why some golf courses and/or homeowners put up large nets between fairways and abutting backyards—no one wants a golf ball flying through their kitchen window while they’re trying to eat breakfast.

Still, accidents happen and houses get hit by wayward golf balls every day. It might seem obvious that either the golfer or the golf course will be held responsible for the damage to the home, but that is not always the case.

Depending on the circumstances of the incident, your own homeowners’ insurance may cover damage caused by errant golf balls. If you were struck by a golf ball while near the golf course, such as while driving down an adjacent street, the golfer’s homeowners’ insurance may be liable.

There are a few exceptions to this rule. If the golf course was built next to your home after you already lived there, the course may be held responsible. And, of course, if the golfer acted intentionally, then they will be liable for the damage (and may end up with criminal charges).

If you are injured by a golf ball while on the course, the golfer who hit you may not be held responsible, unless they were acting recklessly, negligently, or with intent to hit you. Listen for calls of “FORE” and be ready to duck at any time.

Dog Bites

Your homeowners’ insurance also covers any harm done by the animals living in your home, even if they’re not physically on your property when it occurs. The most common example of this is dog attacks: if your dog injures someone on public property, or as an invited guest on private property, your homeowners’ insurance is responsible for covering the victim’s damages.