Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner Reminds Consumers to Protect Their Summer Plans With Appropriate Insurance Coverage

Thursday, Jun 25,2009, 10:24:53 AM Click:

HARRISBURG, Pa., June 24 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Insurance Commissioner Joel Ario today reminded consumers to keep a few insurance concerns in mind if planning a trip, renting a property or renting out their own home to vacationers.

"Your plans for summer fun could turn into an insurance nightmare if you are not properly covered," Ario advised. "Personal belongings you take on vacation -- such as a laptop, camera or clothing -- are generally covered by your primary homeowners policy, but be sure to read your homeowners policy so that you know if there is a maximum amount your policy will pay if any of those items are lost, stolen or damaged.

"Buying travel insurance is an option that can protect you from the loss of non-refundable travel costs, including airfare, hotel and excursion expenses. Some companies will even bundle packages to include anything from identity theft to delayed or lost baggage, so it's wise to take the time and do a little research to see what's available."

If summer plans include renting a property, Ario says that renters are generally not responsible for damages caused by unavoidable accidents, such as faulty plumbing.

"There are circumstances, though, where you could be considered partially responsible for damages to a rental property due to negligence, and you may be expected to pay for them," Ario added. "Carefully read the rental agreement and be sure you understand it before signing.

"On the flip side, if you hope to make a little extra cash this summer by renting out your vacation property, first review your insurance policy closely to make sure your coverage meets your expectation," Ario said. "It may be wise to purchase additional liability, bodily injury and medical payment insurance to cover you when you or your family is not in the home."

As with any insurance policy, make sure the company is licensed and legitimate, and before signing on the bottom line make sure you completely understand the coverage terms and limitations.

Consumers with questions are invited to visit www.insurance.state.pa.us, call the Insurance Department's toll-free, automated consumer hotline at (877) 881-6388, or contact any of the department's Bureau of Consumer Services' regional offices: (717) 787-2317, Harrisburg; (215) 560-2630, Philadelphia; or (412) 565-5020, Pittsburgh.
CONTACT: Rosanne Placey or Melissa Fox
(717) 787-3289

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Insurance CONTACT:Rosanne Placey or Melissa Fox, both of the Pennsylvania Department of Insurance, +1-717-787-3289 http://www.prnewswire.com