Transportation Costs to
Return from Vacation Covered?

Q

An insured was away on vacation when she learned of a fire at her home. She had to return in order to secure the premises, have the alarm fixed, take steps to begin repairs, and mitigate any further damage.

Is the insurance company responsible for transportation costs for her return trip? The homeowners policy conditions do require that the insured take necessary steps to prevent further damage. Since this is a policy condition, would the insured's airfare be paid?

New Jersey Subscriber

A

Costs that are in addition to those normally incurred to return home from vacation should be covered.

For example, a homeowner is on vacation and plans to drive home. She is forced to fly home because of a fire, plus she must make special arrangements to get her car home. The cost of the flight and the car transport (the difference between normal and special travel costs) should be considered covered expenses.

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