What is 'umbrella insurance'?

Umbrella insurance refers to a type of personal liability coverage that provides additional financial protection beyond the limits of other policies, such as homeowners or auto insurance. This added layer of coverage kicks in when the limits of those underlying policies have been exhausted, helping to shield individuals from significant financial losses in the event of claims such as lawsuits for bodily injury or property damage.

This type of insurance is particularly beneficial because it acts as a safety net, offering protection against unforeseen circumstances that could lead to substantial legal expenses or damages. It is designed to cover a wide range of potential liabilities, which is why many individuals find it essential, especially those with assets to protect.

In contrast, basic coverage for home and auto insurance typically covers specific incidents related to those particular policies but does not extend beyond set limits. Policies related specifically to natural disasters or types of life insurance serve entirely different purposes and do not encompass the broader liability coverage that umbrella insurance provides.