Personal Lines Insurance Education

Personal lines insurance refers to property and casualty coverage designed for individuals and families rather than businesses. It includes homeowners, auto, renters, and umbrella policies — the policies that protect your home, your vehicles, your belongings, and your personal liability.

Start by reviewing your declarations page for each policy. Compare your dwelling coverage to your home's replacement cost, your auto liability limits to your total assets, and check whether you have an umbrella policy to cover gaps. The Insurance Professor can help you identify specific questions to ask your agent about your coverage adequacy.

Most carriers offer multi-policy discounts when you bundle homeowners and auto insurance, and sometimes renters or umbrella policies as well. Bundling can save 5-25% depending on the carrier and state. However, the cheapest bundle is not always the best coverage — review each policy on its own merits before combining.

First, request a written explanation of the denial citing the specific policy language and exclusion. Review your policy to verify the insurer's interpretation. Check your state's claim handling regulations for deadlines and requirements. If you believe the denial is wrong, you can file an appeal with the carrier, a complaint with your state's department of insurance, or consult a public adjuster or attorney.