Property & casualty insurance: Understanding different policy options

by Ann Hayward 11/20/2022

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The world of insurance can be confusing. There are so many policies to choose from - among the myriad options you’re certain to encounter what’s known as property and casualty insurance, or P and C insurance. Understanding this type of insurance is crucial to making smart decisions in choosing your coverage.


How does P&C insurance work?

P&C insurance offers financial coverage to your personal belongings. This includes your home, car and the contents of your home. It can also include personal liability coverage. 


What are the main types of P&C insurance?

Some of the most common types of P&C insurance include: 


  • Homeowners insurance: Offers policies to homeowners. Coverage options include personal belongings, home structure and liability insurance. 
  • Renters insurance: This insurance provides financial security for personal belongings owned by renters. 
  • Car insurance: This insurance offers financial compensation when a car is involved in an accident. 

What does P&C insurance include?

P&C insurance includes coverages to your belongings when perils strike. For example, if someone breaks into your home and steals your laptop, property insurance would pay for a replacement. 

However, if you have a health issue, P&C insurance wouldn’t cover medical bills. This would be under the purview of your health insurance policy.

Do a survey of your belongings to know what might need coverage. Once you have this information, you get a better idea of the insurance types best suited for you.

About the Author
Author

Ann Hayward

Born in Philadelphia and raised in the suburbs, Ann Hayward got her Pennsylvania real estate license at age 18 even before going to college. This second-generation real estate professional followed in the footsteps of her father and two uncles, inheriting their passion for the business. Licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia, Ann is accomplished in her career, with numerous designations including SFR, SRES, PSA, WHC, and multiunit Housing Development Finance Professional (HDFP) from the National Development Council. She specializes in Prince Georges and Montgomery Counties, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, all jurisdictions where Ann has lived and knows very well. In addition to her professional expertise, she owns and manages personal investment property, understands and has been involved in the renovation/remodeling process, and has great resources which she shares with clients. When you hire Ann to represent you, she will make your buying or selling experience an enjoyable, rewarding one. Her compassion, sensitivity to her clients’ needs, eye for detail, and ability to see the big picture when guiding you through a purchase or sale are unique assets that will ensure your success. A diverse and relevant background also gives Ann a distinct edge. For 30 years, she worked in fast-paced, high-pressure television and theatrical production, attaining the highest achievement – DGA membership as a Director, and as an award-winning staff and freelance writer. Her keen audio visual skills and design sense benefit sellers in marketing their properties, and are invaluable in helping buyers see the potential of space. A true renaissance woman, Ann was also an income tax professional and office manager for H&R Block, so she thoroughly understands the tax and financial implications of acquiring and selling real estate. Her superior organizational skills are further evidenced as owner of a downsizing/professional organizing business, Managed For You, which allows her to connect with everyone from millennials to boomers and seniors, whether for small space planning or assisting with major decluttering and transitioning. Ann holds an AB in American History from Simmons College, Boston, plus attended Robert Wagner Graduate School of Public Administration where she was a candidate for Doctorate. She additionally studied Film Direction at the American Film Institute in LA, and was a Stanford University post-graduate Professional Journalism Fellow. Personally, Ann is an avid if not very good golfer, and the co-founder of a nonprofit 501c3 organization offering educational guidance, tutoring and counseling for youngsters from elementary school through college admission. She sits on the board of trustees of a nonprofit educational film production corporation as well. (202) 494-6252 [email protected]