Have Critters Been Busy Chewing up Your Boat?
You’re getting your boat ready for spring and you see that rodents have chewed wiring and cushions over the winter. Does boat insurance cover rodent damage?
Your boat insurance can cover rodent damage, but make sure to read the details of your marine insurance policy or you could be responsible for paying for any repairs, losing time out on the water while they’re being done.
What kind of damage can rodents do to your boat?
Squirrels, mice, rats, for example, can chew rubber wiring covers as well as upholstery, curtains, and foam cushions on your boat.
They can give their teeth a workout and also chew through hoses and wood on your boat.
Remember that rodents look for a place to nest during cold weather and are attracted to any food or cloth materials that you leave on your boat.
Speak to a Western Financial Group boat insurance expert about rodent coverage in your marine policy.
How to prevent rodent damage on your boat
- Always follow the manufacturers’ recommendations when closing up your boat for the winter to help keep rodents out
- Clean and seal your boat for the winter, including upholstery
- Don’t leave any perishable food on your boat at any time
- Remove any blankets, towels, life jackets, straps, or other cloth articles
- Put moth balls across the deck and on upholstery; you can also try dryer sheets, or soap shavings
- Use traps or use repellents
- Store your boat in a clean area with a concrete floor
- Remove live bait and clean fish storage areas after fishing
- Visit your boat occasionally during winter
Can rodents do damage to your boat in the summer?
Yes. Boats are often left unattended for periods during the warm weather and that gives mice and other rodents the opportunity to get on your boat.
If you leave food or you don’t empty drink coolers or ice boxes on your boat, that’s an opportunity for them.
Boat insurance isn’t legally required but it protects your investment in your boat. Marinas and lenders may require boat insurance. Speak to your Western Financial Group boat insurance expert about a marine policy for your boat.
Benefits of boat insurance
- Boat insurance provides financial protection if your speedboat, sailboat, personal watercraft, or any other type of watercraft is involved in an accident, is damaged or stolen.
- Boat insurance includes liability coverage in case you are responsible for another person's injuries or property damage.
Did you know your marine insurance policy depends on:
- Length of watercraft
- Size of motor
- Type of motor (inboard / outboard)
- Type of vessel
- Use (rental to others/sporting activities)
- Boat storage - where it is kept when not in use
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