Insurance for Unwedded Couples and Other Roommates

Have you read all the details of your homeowner's or renter's insurance policy from beginning to end? An essential exclusion for homeowners and renters relates to other household members. This might include your boyfriend, girlfriend, girlfriend's children, roommate, acquaintance, or anyone else who lives with you and is not your blood or legal relative.

Insurance companies define these individuals as "other household members." And believe it or not, unless you alter your insurance directly, these additional members are likely NOT insured for property damage or liability claims.

So, is there any particular insurance for cohabiting individuals who are not married? Let's disassemble it.

Who is included in my homeowner's insurance?

Your home insurance covers you and any household members related by blood, marriage, or adoption. Any juveniles under your care must be registered (e.g., foster children). These individuals would obtain automatic coverage for their possessions in the case of a fire, burst pipe, theft, etc. In addition, they would be covered under the personal liability section of your insurance.

Although unmarried, both names are on the deed. Were we insured?

We have seen that insurance companies are increasingly writing policies to mimic the house deed. Therefore, if you are both included on the deed, you are likely both named insureds and covered. In this particular scenario, there is no need to obtain an "other members" endorsement. (But check with your agent beforehand!)

Does my homeowner's insurance protect your partner?

No. Unless you are both mentioned on the deed or obtain an endorsement for Other Members coverage, the answer is no (see below). Otherwise, this individual would lack both property and liability coverage.

Is your roommate or buddy insured?

Unless you acquire an endorsement for Other Members coverage, the answer is no (see below). This individual lacks both property and personal liability coverage.

Who requires liability insurance? Why does it exist?

Personal liability protection is included in your homeowner's insurance policy. Personal liability is intended to protect you if you mistakenly cause property damage or bodily harm to another individual. (Excluding automobile accidents!)

Suppose you hit a golf ball that shatters someone's window. Or, suppose you are burning leaves in your backyard, and the blaze spreads to your neighbor's garage. The purpose of personal liability is to assist you in paying for losses.

However, if your boyfriend/girlfriend/child were at fault, your homeowner's insurance would not respond unless you acquired Other Members coverage.

Does homeowner's insurance cover your elderly mom?

Yes. If you have an elderly parent living with you, they would be covered under your coverage because you are related by blood.

Does my homeowner's insurance protect your adult child?

Yes. Because they are a blood relative, an adult child who resides with you would be covered by your policy.

How do I modify my insurance to include my girlfriend/boyfriend/significant other?

If you own a home or are going to purchase one, an "Other Members" endorsement would assist you in bridging this gap, safeguarding not just the property of your loved ones but also their financial stability in the case of liability action.

If you rent, you can also add a person to your Massachusetts renter's insurance. Still, some disadvantages exist, especially if the person is not your spouse or a serious, long-term partner. Depending on the nature of your relationship and other factors, it may make sense for each of you to acquire your coverage. Contacting a local agent for individualized counsel is your best option.