Umbrella Insurance vs. Excess Liability Insurance: What’s the Difference?

Umbrella Insurance vs. Excess Liability Insurance: What’s the Difference?

Umbrella insurance and excess liability insurance are both types of additional liability coverage that go beyond the limits of a primary insurance policy, such as home or auto insurance. However, there are some differences between the two. Here’s a brief overview:

Coverage limits: Umbrella insurance typically provides higher coverage limits compared to excess liability insurance. Umbrella policies typically start at $1 million in coverage and can go up to $10 million or more, while excess liability insurance typically provides coverage in increments above the primary policy limits.

Coverage scope: Umbrella insurance provides additional liability coverage for a wide range of risks, including personal liability, auto liability, and property liability. Excess liability insurance, on the other hand, typically provides coverage only for a specific type of liability, such as auto liability or home liability.

Primary policy requirement: Umbrella insurance generally requires the policyholder to have a primary insurance policy with certain minimum coverage limits before the umbrella policy can be activated. Excess liability insurance, on the other hand, is typically added on top of an existing primary insurance policy, and it kicks in only after the primary policy’s limits have been exhausted.

Cost: Umbrella insurance tends to be more expensive than excess liability insurance due to the higher coverage limits and broader scope of coverage. However, the cost of both types of coverage will depend on various factors, such as the amount of coverage needed, the policyholder’s risk profile, and the insurance company’s pricing.

Additional coverages: Umbrella insurance may also provide coverage for claims that are not covered by the primary policy, such as libel, slander, or defamation. Excess liability insurance, on the other hand, typically only provides coverage for the specific liability type for which it is purchased.

Legal defense coverage: Both umbrella insurance and excess liability insurance may include coverage for legal defense costs in the event of a covered claim. This can help protect the policyholder from expensive legal fees.

It’s essential to review the details of both umbrella insurance and excess liability insurance carefully, including their coverage limits, coverage scope, requirements, costs, and any additional coverages or features they may offer. Consulting with an insurance professional can be helpful in determining which type of coverage is best suited for your individual needs and circumstances.

Leave a comment