People who own certain breeds of dogs can have trouble finding Home Owners Insurance in Austin TX. Some insurers blacklist specific breeds because data indicates those dogs are more prone to aggressive and dangerous behavior. Not every state allows this blacklisting, but Texas does. Examples of breeds that can result in denial of coverage include German shepherds, Rottweilers, pit bull terriers and Doberman pinschers. An individual with one or more of these animals needs to find an agent such as Patrick Court with State Farm, as that particular insurance company does not blacklist dog breeds.
This kind of company holds the philosophy that any dog may bite unexpectedly. Even breeds with a reputation for being gentle and family friendly can become aggressive in certain circumstances. In addition, some dogs become more irritable when they reach their elderly years. A dog that previously may have been patient with another dog pestering it might no longer be so accommodating in its old age.
No matter what kind of dog someone owns, it’s smart to include hefty personal liability coverage that would pay on any claims involving vicious canine behavior. Otherwise the person is at risk of being sued and losing valuable assets. An agent selling Home Owners Insurance in Austin TX can set up the policy so the property owner is protected. The coverage will pay for an injured person’s medical bills or for an injured pet’s veterinary bills. Medical bills will include any cosmetic surgery that is necessary to resolve scarring.
Texas state law also requires that the owner of a dog that has attacked someone purchase a canine liability policy. If the current home insurer does not offer this kind of policy, the agent may be able to direct the customer to a company that does. The pet owner now must carry both standard home insurance as well as the additional liability policy.
Owners of specific dog breeds may be dismayed at the issues with homeowners insurance and view it as discrimination. They may cite the benefits of a dog that can function as a guard dog. For instance, would-be burglars are less likely to invade a house where a German shepherd or a Rottweiler lives.