IRDAI License Number: IRDAI/INT/ISNP/2022/250
An external debris removal clause is a provision in a property insurance policy which covers removal of debris from the insured's property. The debris, however, must have occurred due to an insured peril specifically mentioned in the schedule of the policy. Many a time such clauses cover only a small percentage of claim or sum insured. For example 1% of the claim amount.
Many different types of debris can amass on a property. For example – During a storm, a tree may fall on the property. This would result in debris including wood, leaves, any electric cables, the broken structure of the property. If as a result, a fire starts it may further result in charred furniture and ashes. The work and cost of removing the debris are separate and is not included in the repair of the property. This is where the eternal removal of debris comes in play. Without this provision, the insured will be required to pay for the debris removal expenses out of his or her own pocket to get the job done.
The removal of debris provision commonly comes with a cap on the amount of reimbursement that an insured can receive for debris removal expenses. The amount is mentioned in the schedule of the insurance policy. While most insurance policies typically have debris removal as a standard provision, the insured can often be able to get additional coverage through policy’s add-ons by paying extra premium. The add-on policy provision may also spread out to the removal of hazardous materials that may cover the insured’s premises but could exclude pollutants.
