My Dog Bit Someone and Now I’m getting Nonrenewed. What Do I Do?
My Dog Bit Someone and Now I’m Getting Nonrenewed. What Happens Now?
Why Home Insurance Companies Drop Dog Owners
When a dog bite occurs, especially if a claim is filed, insurance companies may view the household as a higher liability risk. Depending on the state and insurer, this could lead to:
- Policy Nonrenewal: Your insurer chooses not to renew coverage when your current policy ends.
- Coverage Exclusions: The company may continue coverage but exclude dog liability.
- Premium Hikes: You’re renewed but now pay significantly more.
Some insurers have strict internal guidelines about certain breeds or behaviors, and even a single incident, whether your dog was provoked or not, can trigger a flag in their system.
Common breeds considered high-risk include:
- Pit Bulls
- Rottweilers
- German Shepherds
- Dobermans
- Huskies
- Wolf-hybrids
(Though the actual list varies by carrier.)
In your case, your dog is now viewed by insurance companies as a potential future liability. This can make it harder to find traditional homeowners coverage, or at least, the kind you're used to. Its also important to remember that just because your new carrier doesn't ask if you have a dog with a bit history doesn't mean that it isn't material, which could lead to a claim denial.
Step-by-Step: What to Do If You’re Nonrenewed
1. Don’t Let Your Coverage Lapse
Being
nonrenewed is not the same as being canceled mid-policy, but if you don’t act before the expiration date, your coverage will lapse.
2. Get a Copy of the Nonrenewal Notice
This will clarify why you’re being nonrenewed. Sometimes it specifically cites the dog bite or "animal liability."
3. Work With a High-Risk Insurance Specialist
You need someone who understands how to place coverage with flexible carriers. At HomeInsuranceAlternatives.com, we help homeowners like you find real coverage.
4. Be Honest, But Strategic
New applications will likely ask if you own a dog, if the dog has a bite history, and if you’ve had insurance nonrenewed.
5. Explore Private Market Alternatives to FAIR Plans
Many states have a FAIR Plan, but they often exclude liability coverage or offer limited protection.
What Kind of Coverage Can You Expect?
High-risk insurance options vary by state, but here’s what’s typically possible:
- Full Homeowners Insurance with Liability: Through non-admitted carriers or surplus lines brokers.
- Homeowners Insurance with Dog Liability Exclusion: The rest of your home is covered, but the dog isn’t.
- Standalone Canine Liability Policy: In some states, this can be added on top of your homeowners insurance. Some municipalities may require an animal liability policy after a dog bite which is something a specialist can handle, no need to get rid of Fido.
Will This Follow Me Forever?
Not necessarily. Many insurers will reconsider:
- After 3–5 years with no further incidents
- If your dog undergoes behavioral training
- If you add fencing, signage, or a muzzle protocol
Document everything. If your dog was provoked, that matters.
Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone, and You’re Not Uninsurable
A dog bite doesn’t mean you’re a bad pet owner, and it shouldn’t mean you’re left without protection. Thousands of responsible homeowners are dropped each year because of animal liability concerns.
With a specialist, homeowners who’ve been dropped, denied, or labeled “high risk,” whether due to a dog bite, past claims, or other situations have options.
