Pets bring so much joy to a home. Still, many Colorado homeowners are surprised to learn how pets can factor into their home insurance through Colling Insurance Services, Inc., serving Lakewood, CO. Whether you have a playful puppy or a laid-back older cat, it’s worth understanding how your furry friends might impact your coverage.

Liability Protection for Pet Incidents

Most standard home insurance policies include liability coverage, which can help pay for injuries or property damage if your pet causes harm to someone else. This often arises in situations involving dog bites or when a pet knocks someone over. If a guest trips over your energetic dog and needs medical care, your liability insurance could help cover the bills and even legal fees if there’s a lawsuit.

Breed and Animal Restrictions

It’s essential to note that not all pets are treated equally by insurance companies. Some insurers place restrictions or higher premiums on certain dog breeds they consider higher risk. Exotic pets, such as large snakes or certain types of birds, may not be covered at all under typical pet insurance policies. If you have a pet that’s on a restricted list, your agent can help you explore options, such as specialty liability policies.

Damage to Your Own Property

Homeowners’ insurance generally won’t pay for damage your pet causes to your own belongings or house. For instance, if your dog scratches up the hardwood floors or your cat tears the curtains, that’s usually something you’ll have to handle out of pocket. Home insurance is mainly there to protect you if your pet damages someone else’s property or causes injury.

Having pets is one of life’s greatest joys, but it’s wise to understand where your home insurance stands. A quick conversation with your agent at Colling Insurance Services, Inc., serving Lakewood, CO, can clarify what’s covered, what exclusions might apply, and how to make sure your home and your pets are both properly protected. Contact us today to learn more.