The short answer
Usually, yes. A standard homeowners policy includes coverage for injuries to guests on your property, within limits. The exact protection depends on your policy, so review it or talk with your agent.
Two coverages that help
Medical payments to others is for smaller, quick claims. It can pay a guest's medical bills, such as an urgent care visit, regardless of who was at fault. The limit is usually modest.
Personal liability is the bigger safety net. If a guest claims you were responsible and sues, it can help pay for your legal defense and any settlement or judgment, up to your liability limit.
Who counts as a guest
Friends, relatives who don't live with you, neighbors and visitors are typically treated as guests. People who live in your household are not. Their injuries are generally handled by their own health insurance.
Workers are a separate case. A contractor should carry their own insurance, so ask for proof before work starts. If you employ someone in your home, like a nanny or housekeeper, rules vary by state, and you may need workers' compensation coverage.
What often isn't covered
- Injuries to you or members of your household
- Injuries tied to a business you run from home
- Harm you caused on purpose
- Hazards your carrier excludes or limits by policy
- Injuries at a rental property you own but don't insure under this policy
Is your liability limit enough?
A serious injury can lead to costs well beyond a basic liability limit. If you host often, have a pool or simply have savings to protect, ask about raising your limit.
An umbrella policy adds extra liability coverage on top of your home and auto policies. It's often less costly than people expect.
If someone gets hurt at your home
- Get the person help, and call 911 if it's serious
- Write down what happened, when and who saw it
- Take photos of the area, like the step or the spill
- Stick to facts and be kind, without guessing about fault
- Call your carrier promptly, even if the injury seems minor
