House Boat Insurance
Regarding insurance, houseboats are classified with cabin cruisers, party boats and ski boats as pleasure boats. So, usually only marine insurer’s handle houseboat coverage.
Houseboat insurance premiums will be determined by the size and age of your boat, the type of craft, where it will be moored and the horsepower of the vessel. Your premium costs can vary from $10 to $30 per foot.
Standard watercraft liability coverage includes protection if damage occurs to other people or other property when you’re operating the houseboat.
Physical damage coverage will pay for covered damage to your boat within the policy limits.
Optional coverages can include medical payments, towing insurance, theft, vandalism, sinking, capsizing, and others. Expect an additional premium for these coverages.
Houseboat Insurance- Questions
Ask these questions when purchasing houseboat insurance:
- When are marine surveys expected?
- What are the territorial limits?
- What dates are being used for the lay-up period (winter storage)?
- What are the liability types and amount?
- What are the deductibles?
- Will live aboard coverage be needed?
As always, shop and compare insurance carriers.
Steve Wyrostek -BoatInsurance.org Expert A 20 year plus veteran of the insurance industry, Steve managed departments in the personal and commercial lines areas of major insurers. He’s familiar with how insurance—ranging from boat to workers compensation—works.
