Under what condition can broad theft coverage be added to a dwelling policy?

Broad theft coverage can be added to a dwelling policy specifically when the insured is the owner-occupant of the dwelling. This is significant because dwelling policies are designed for residences that are not primarily owner-occupied, such as rental properties or seasonal homes. By being an owner-occupant, the insured demonstrates a personal stake in the property, which justifies the inclusion of broader theft coverage.

The rationale behind this condition lies in the nature of owner-occupied homes, which generally have a level of security and care that may not apply to properties rented to tenants. Homeowners are often more invested in protecting their personal belongings, leading insurers to offer additional coverage options like broad theft protection to enhance policy benefits.

In contrast, other options do not align with standard insurance practices. For instance, permission from the department of insurance is not a common requirement for adding coverage, and there is no stipulation that a policy must be in effect for a certain number of days to qualify. Claims regarding the inability to add broad theft coverage overlook the provisions that acknowledge owner-occupants’ needs for more comprehensive protection against theft.