I have a HO fire claim with the policy form ML 20, I have attached a copy.
We are not having any issues with the claim except an area that I feel we should be covered for and the insurance company disagrees.
Under the Personal Property Section Coverage C Personal Property number 1.
Insured lives in the house with a person that helps her with chores around the house, shopping, going to the doctor, cleaning and etc.
This person does not receive a salary for these services, but lives rent free as her remuneration.
Can this be considered a Domestic Employee which would then allow that person's contents to also be covered by this claim?
The policy defines domestic employee as a person employed by insured to perform duties in connection with maintenance or use of the insured premises. Includes performing household or domestic services or duties of a similar nature elsewhere for an insured.
Coverage C provides coverage for personal property of guests and domestic employees. Merriam Webster defines employee as " one employed by another usually for wages or salary".
While the helper doesn't receive a salary, if the person is receiving room and perhaps board that could be considered remuneration for services depending on the relationship between the insured and the helper. Was the helper hired for this position and is lodging part of the agreement, or is the helper a long term friend who is more just helping out? The nature of the relationship is key here.