Before You Buy: 52 Questions to Ask
Before purchasing equine insurance, ask these questions. They won't just help you choose a policy — they'll help you understand what you're buying, what you're not buying, and where gaps exist.
Coverage Questions (1–15)
- Is this an all-risk or named-perils mortality policy?
- What is the agreed value, and how was it determined?
- Does the mortality policy include theft coverage?
- Am I purchasing major medical, surgical-only, or no medical coverage?
- What is the annual medical/surgical limit?
- What is the deductible — per incident or per policy period?
- What is the co-insurance percentage?
- Is Loss of Use included, and at what percentage of value?
- Does the policy cover transit? Are there distance or duration limits?
- Are there geographic restrictions on where the horse can be kept?
- Does the policy cover the horse at shows, competitions, and events?
- Is there coverage during breeding activities (live cover or AI)?
- Are elective procedures excluded (e.g., castration, cosmetic surgery)?
- Does the policy cover alternative therapies (chiropractic, acupuncture)?
- Is there a waiting period before medical coverage begins?
Exclusion & Limitation Questions (16–28)
- What specific conditions or causes are excluded?
- Are there named exclusions specific to this horse based on the health history?
- Does the policy exclude any specific breeds or disciplines?
- Are pre-existing conditions defined by veterinary records, or by any prior knowledge?
- If a condition is excluded now, can it be reviewed for coverage later?
- Are there age limitations on coverage or renewability?
- Does the policy have a maximum insurable value?
- Are cosmetic defects excluded from medical coverage?
- Is there a per-condition limit in addition to the annual limit?
- What happens if the horse changes disciplines during the policy period?
- Are there specific exclusions for arena work, trail riding, or leisure use?
- Does the policy cover injury from turnout with other horses?
- Are hereditary or congenital conditions excluded?
Claims & Process Questions (29–40)
- What is the notification requirement? How quickly must I report a claim?
- Is there a 24/7 claims phone line for emergencies?
- Do I need pre-authorization for emergency treatment?
- Do I need pre-authorization before euthanasia?
- Can I choose my own veterinarian, or must I use approved providers?
- What documentation is required to file a claim?
- How long does claim processing typically take?
- Does the insurer have the right to require a post-mortem examination?
- Am I responsible for post-mortem costs?
- Does the insurer assign their own adjuster, or use independent adjusters?
- Is there an appeals process if a claim is denied?
- How are disputes resolved — arbitration, mediation, or litigation?
Policy & Business Questions (41–52)
- Which underwriter backs this policy? What is their AM Best rating?
- Is this agent licensed in my state?
- Does the agent specialize in equine insurance or is this a sideline?
- What is the policy term — annual, semi-annual?
- What are the cancellation terms for both the insurer and the insured?
- Is the premium paid annually or available in installments?
- Do installment plans include financing charges?
- What is the renewal process? Is rate increase notification required?
- Can the insurer add exclusions at renewal based on claims history?
- Is multi-horse coverage available at a discount?
- Does the agent offer annual policy reviews?
- What happens to the policy if the horse is sold?