How does home insurance cover moving?

Does homeowners insurance cover moving damage?

In many situations, homeowners insurance may provide coverage for personal belongings that are damaged during a move from one home to another. But coverage often depends on what caused the damage.

For example, damage may be covered if it happens because of a covered event, such as certain types of accidents or other listed causes in your policy. But damage caused by poor packing, improper handling, or preventable breakage may not be covered.

That’s why it’s important to review your policy before moving day. Knowing what your policy does and doesn’t cover can help you plan ahead and avoid surprises.

How personal property coverage may work during a move

Under many standard homeowners policies, personal property may be covered for specific causes of loss listed in the policy. You may hear this called named-peril coverage.

That means your possessions may be covered if they’re damaged due to a covered event during the move. For example, if a moving truck overturns and your belongings are damaged, that loss may be covered if the event falls within your policy terms.

Because policies can vary, it’s a good idea to ask your American Family Insurance agent how your personal property coverage applies before, during, and after your move.

Are your things covered if you move them yourself?

Maybe. Homeowners insurance can sometimes extend to personal belongings while you move them yourself. But coverage depends on the situation and the cause of the damage.

If you’re using your own vehicle or trailer, your belongings may have some protection while in transit. In some cases, your vehicle coverage may also matter, especially if there’s damage related to an accident involving the vehicle or trailer.

Keep in mind that one of the most common moving mishaps—damage caused by improper packing or shifting items—is not usually covered. Using sturdy boxes, protective packing materials, and secure loading practices can help lower the risk.

Does your auto policy cover a rented moving truck?

It depends on your insurer, your policy, and sometimes the state you’re in.

Coverage for rented moving trucks is not always the same as coverage for a personal auto rental. Before you rent a truck, call your insurance agent and ask:

• Whether your auto policy applies to the rental truck
• Whether physical damage to the truck is covered
• Whether liability coverage applies
• Whether you should consider additional coverage from the truck rental company

It’s also important to remember that coverage for the truck itself is not the same as coverage for the belongings inside it.

Does homeowners insurance cover damage caused by a moving company?

If you hire movers, ask questions before signing a contract. Your homeowners policy may help in some situations, but the moving company’s own protection may also play a role.

Ask the moving company:

• How are my belongings protected while in your possession?
• What liability protection is included?
• What extra protection can I buy?
• What types of damage are excluded?
• How are claims handled if items are lost, damaged, or destroyed?

Also ask for the mover’s current certificate of insurance and review their terms carefully.