Search
 

Do You See Dead People?

Is there coverage under the homeowner's policy for cleanup for both the dwelling and personal property?

By Christine G. Barlow | Updated on March 02, 2007

Some of the most unnerving claims an adjuster can experience are those concerning dead bodies, and the editors at Fire, Casualty, & Surety have recently had many questions regarding the deceased and what to do with them. Particularly, is there coverage under the homeowner’s policy for cleanup for both the dwelling and personal property? Are dead bodies pollutants? And what about self-inflicted situations? Are they excluded as intentional acts?

Let’s start with the pollution exclusion and coverage for the dwelling. At first glance, the exclusion seems fairly straightforward. It reads, “The discharge, dispersal, seepage, migration, release, or escape of pollutants, unless such action is caused by a peril insured against under Coverage C, is excluded.” The policy then defines “pollutant” as any solid, liquid, gaseous, or thermal irritant or contaminant, including smoke, vapor, soot, fumes, acids, alkalis, chemicals, and waste. Waste is further defined as materials to be recycled or reclaimed.

Want to continue reading?
Become a Free
PropertyCasualty360 Digital Reader.

INCLUDED IN A DIGITAL MEMBERSHIP:

  • All PropertyCasualty360.com news coverage, best practices, and in-depth analysis.
  • Educational webcasts, resources from industry leaders, and informative newsletters.
  • Other award-winning websites including BenefitsPRO.com and ThinkAdvisor.com.

Already have an account?

NOT FOR REPRINT

© 2024 ALM Global, LLC, All Rights Reserved. Request academic re-use from www.copyright.com. All other uses, submit a request to [email protected]. For more information visit Asset & Logo Licensing.

Recommended Stories

PropertyCasualty360

Join PropertyCasualty360

Don’t miss crucial news and insights you need to make informed decisions for your P&C insurance business. Join PropertyCasualty360.com now!

  • Unlimited access to PropertyCasualty360.com - your roadmap to thriving in a disrupted environment
  • Access to other award-winning ALM websites including BenefitsPRO.com, ThinkAdvisor.com and Law.com
  • Exclusive discounts on PropertyCasualty360, National Underwriter, Claims and ALM events

Already have an account? Sign In Now
Join PropertyCasualty360

Copyright © 2024 ALM Global, LLC. All Rights Reserved.