Home Exchange – Security and Insurance Issues (part 2 of 2)

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Insurance issues

Before buying any kind of insurance, shop first for the most competitive price. Prices radically differ worldwide. Get the physical address of your insurer, their toll-free number, and a direct point of contact while abroad, if any.

Determine how long you will be traveling and add two weeks to insure your lost luggage is covered. Read your policy carefully. You may not be covered in some areas. Be ready to pay for additional premiums if you want them covered. Be aware of rules on how and when these companies are notified in the event of a loss.

Regarding home insurance, most policies have a good comprehensive coverage, although insurance policies differ from country to country. Most travelers, therefore, are more concerned about medical and travel insurance as well as car insurance policies. Here’s a quick rundown.

Many insurance companies have different restrictions on benefits if travel is for an extended period. Many try to cover travel assistance, protection, personal accidents, losses, travel interruptions and others. The premiums differ according to the scope of your coverage. Read your policy carefully to find out exactly what you are covered for. Other countries have steep costs for emergencies, and they can be avoided beforehand.

In the United States, a car insurance policy has the usual provision line of “any other person while using such a car within the scope of the consent of the insured and his or her spouse”. This means anyone using the car with the owner’s (policyholder) consent is fully covered. There are exceptions and other restrictions, to be sure, depending from country to country.

As always, double checking your policy is a good practice. Also, provide a permission letter from yourself should you decide to let your home exchange partner use your car. This is for emergency purposes. Have him provide you of his valid driver’s license.

Lastly, be aware that travel and car insurance policies vary. Companies have their own restrictions. Some policies include home exchangers in their coverage by listing them as friends of the insured. Additional policies can be bought separately to insure your adequate protection.

Having these security issues covered and taken care of makes one’s vacation worry-free and enjoyable. And with all the advantages of a home exchange, what could be more satisfying than that?