Family seated in their home

What Is Liability Protection in Homeowners Insurance?

July 15, 20253 min read

What Is Liability Protection in Homeowners Insurance?

Coverage That Defends More Than Just Your Home

Accidents happen on your property, because of your dog, or even from a guest tripping over a loose step. If someone gets hurt or their property is damaged and you’re found responsible, liability protection in your homeowners insurance can help cover legal and medical costs—so you don’t pay out of pocket.

At OnePoint Insurance Agency, we believe in protecting more than just your house. Liability coverage is essential for protecting your savings, your peace of mind, and your future.


What Liability Insurance Covers

Also known as Coverage E, liability protection provides financial defense when you or someone in your household is found legally responsible for injuring someone or damaging their property.

Covered Situations:

  • Guest injuries on your property (e.g., slips, falls, dog bites)

  • Property damage you or a family member cause to others

  • Legal defense costs if you’re sued

  • Medical payments to others (via Coverage F)

  • Incidents that occur away from home, like your dog biting someone at the park

Most homeowners policies include between $100,000–$500,000 in liability protection. For higher-risk households or valuable assets, an umbrella policy can extend coverage up to several million dollars.


What’s Not Covered

Liability coverage is broad but not unlimited. It won’t protect you in these scenarios:

  • Injuries to people living in your home (use health insurance instead)

  • Intentional harm or criminal acts

  • Incidents related to a home-based business or client visits

  • Car accidents (covered under your auto policy)

  • Dog bites from restricted breeds or exotic pets, depending on your insurer

Policy wording varies, so working with OnePoint ensures you understand what’s excluded before it’s too late.


Who Needs Liability Coverage?

Every homeowner should have it. In fact, many renters and condo owners need strong personal liability insurance too.

You especially need it if you:

  • Have frequent visitors to your home

  • Own a dog, trampoline, swimming pool, or other liability risks

  • Host parties, guests, or short-term renters like Airbnb

  • Have teenagers or children who might accidentally damage property or cause harm

  • Have significant savings or assets that could be targeted in a lawsuit

Even a single injury claim could cost thousands in medical bills or legal fees. That’s where liability protection pays for itself.


Frequently Asked Questions

How much liability coverage should I carry?
We recommend at least $300,000–$500,000. If you have high-value assets, you should consider an umbrella policy for an additional $1 million+ in coverage.

Does liability insurance cover lawsuits?
Yes. If you’re sued over a covered incident, your insurer will typically cover attorney fees, court costs, and settlement amounts—up to your policy limits.

Are dog bites covered?
Usually yes, unless your dog is on an excluded breed list. Always disclose your pets when buying or renewing a policy.

What’s the difference between Coverage E and Coverage F?
Coverage E is personal liability (legal and settlement costs).
Coverage F provides no-fault medical payments to others—usually up to $5,000—to avoid lawsuits for minor injuries.


How OnePoint Can Help

Liability claims can be stressful and expensive. At OnePoint Insurance Agency, we help you:

  • Evaluate how much personal liability protection you really need

  • Compare policies from multiple top-rated insurance carriers

  • Add umbrella coverage where appropriate

  • Review pet liability and excluded activities before you’re exposed

We serve homeowners, landlords, and families across Georgia, Texas, Florida, Illinois, and beyond. Let’s build protection that matches your lifestyle.


Get a Quote or Learn More


Related Articles

OnePoint Insurance Agency is a family-run, independent insurance agency serving working families, small businesses, and individuals across the U.S. We specialize in auto, home, health, Medicare, life, and commercial coverage—with honest guidance and unbeatable service.

OnePoint Insurance Agency

OnePoint Insurance Agency is a family-run, independent insurance agency serving working families, small businesses, and individuals across the U.S. We specialize in auto, home, health, Medicare, life, and commercial coverage—with honest guidance and unbeatable service.

LinkedIn logo icon
Instagram logo icon
Back to Blog