When securing insurance for your home, condo, or rental, most people think of protecting property and belongings. However, an essential part of coverage often overlooked is personal liability insurance. This coverage provides financial protection if you’re legally responsible for causing bodily injury or property damage to another person, both on and off your property. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Bodily Injury Protection: Liability coverage helps cover medical costs if someone is injured due to your actions. For example, if a guest slips on a wet floor in your home or your dog bites someone, this coverage can help cover medical expenses.
  2. Property Damage: This portion covers damages to another person’s property caused by you or someone on your policy. For instance, if your child accidentally hits a baseball through a neighbor’s window, your policy can help cover repair costs.
  3. Legal Fees: If an incident leads to a lawsuit, personal liability insurance can cover legal defense costs, saving you thousands in attorney fees.

Coverage Differences for Homeowners, Condo Owners, and Renters

  • Homeowners typically have broader liability coverage, as they are fully responsible for their property.
  • Condo Owners share some responsibility with the condo association, but personal liability insurance covers incidents within the unit and some incidents off-premises.
  • Renters also benefit from liability coverage, helping cover accidents in the rental unit or off-property, despite not owning the structure.

How Much Coverage Do You Need?

Policies offer limits of $300,000 to $500,000, but higher limits of $1,000,000 can be beneficial if available from your carrier. If you have significant assets, an umbrella policy can add an extra layer of protection, extending coverage across all your policies.

Bottom Line: Personal liability insurance is an essential part of your policy that provides financial peace of mind. It ensures you’re protected from lawsuits, medical bills, and repair costs, helping avoid significant financial strain from unexpected incidents.

Read Other Blog Posts

Shoveling snow

Snowmelt Damage Prevention Tips

Accumulating water from melting snow and ice—also known as snowmelt —can lead to significant property damage if not managed. It's important to be aware of this risk and take measures to prevent issues. Don’t let snowmelt wreak havoc on your home. Review guidance for snowmelt damage prevention recommendations.
Side-view mirror

The Defensive Driving Process

To be a defensive driver, it’s important to follow a three-step process: see hazards, determine potential responses, and act in time. Driving in Massachusetts means navigating heavy traffic, narrow roads, construction zones, and unpredictable New England weather. Defensive driving helps local drivers anticipate hazards, reduce accident risk, and protect their auto insurance record.
Be Ready for Severe Winter Weather Snowstorms, Ice, and Extreme Cold

Be Ready for Severe Winter Weather: Snowstorms, Ice, and Extreme Cold

Severe winter storms can bring heavy snow, ice, and extreme cold. Learn how to prepare your home, protect your vehicle, prevent frozen pipes and power outages, and take practical steps to keep your family safe during harsh winter weather.
Chimney

Chimney Maintenance Is Essential

A well-maintained chimney is essential for keeping your home safe, as neglected chimneys are a leading cause of fireplace-related fires and carbon monoxide issues. With an estimated 20,000 chimney fires occurring each year in the U.S., routine inspections and cleanings play a critical role in reducing creosote buildup and preventing costly damage. By making chimney care part of your annual home-maintenance plan, you’ll protect your property and ensure your fireplace operates safely all season long.
Woman buying a car

Shopping for a Safe Vehicle

When shopping for a new vehicle, safety should be a top consideration. This brief guide outlines key safety features—from crash protection to advanced driver assistance systems—and explains how they can impact your insurance costs. Understanding these factors can help you make a smarter, more informed purchase.
Operating Under the Influence (OUI) Will Cost You Money

Operating Under the Influence (OUI) Will Cost You Money

An Operating Under the Influence (OUI) conviction is more than a legal problem; it’s a financial disaster. Between fines, court fees, license costs, higher insurance premiums, towing, and lost wages, one mistake can cost you between $11,000 and $30,000. The best way to save? Don’t drink and drive.
Fresh Look at Personal Insurance SMM

A New Year, A Fresh Look at Your Protection

A new year is the perfect time to review your insurance and personal risk management. Life changes, rising costs, and growing responsibilities can all affect your coverage needs. A quick annual check can help ensure that you and what matters most are properly protected.
Car side-view

How Deductibles Affect Auto Insurance Premiums

Learn how your auto insurance deductible impacts both your premium and your protection. Choosing the right deductible can help you balance monthly costs with what you would pay out of pocket if an accident or covered claim occurs, giving you better control over your coverage and budget.
Murphy Insurance Agency Supporting Local Charities Through Employee Generosity

Murphy Insurance Agency Supporting Local Charities Through Teamwork

Murphy Insurance proudly supports local charities making a meaningful impact across our communities. Through agency contributions, employee generosity, volunteer efforts, and seasonal drives, we help provide comfort, care, and essential resources to families in need.

Visit Our Homeowners Insurance Page

Homeowners Insurance

At Murphy Insurance, we take great care in assessing your options for homeowners insurance to ensure that you receive the most favorable value. Our dedication to serving you entails collaborating with highly-rated insurance providers and conducting comprehensive assessments of available choices. Our goal is to achieve the ideal equilibrium between affordability and coverage that suits your unique needs. Please let us provide you with a customized homeowners insurance quote.