Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario (RIBO) Practice Exam

If severe rain damages a rug after leaving a window open, what does the policy state?

1. Coverage exists for weather-related damage

2. No coverage exists

3. The damage is partially covered

4. The insurer will replace the rug

The correct answer is: No coverage exists

In the context of a standard insurance policy, leaving a window open during severe rain typically falls under the category of negligence or failure to take reasonable precautions to protect property. Most homeowners' insurance policies have clauses that address exclusions for damage resulting from negligence or lack of upkeep. As a result, the policy may clarify that any damage caused by circumstances the policyholder could have reasonably controlled, such as leaving a window open during a storm, does not warrant coverage. In contrast, options suggesting coverage—whether it be complete, partial, or replacement—would generally apply when damage is caused by an unforeseen event that the insured could not have prevented. Since the act of leaving a window open is generally considered an avoidable risk, the lack of coverage in this specific scenario aligns with typical policy language.