Cockatoo guide

Personal lines insurance: household versus business use

Personal lines is an industry classification for insurance associated with individuals and households, such as home or motor cover. It is not a specific policy that automatically covers every personal risk.

Personal lines is an industry classification for insurance associated with individuals and households, such as home or motor cover. It is not a specific policy that automatically covers every personal risk.

The distinction that matters

A household or personal motor policy may treat business activities differently. Classification, ownership and actual use should be checked rather than inferred from who pays the premium.

What to check

  • The insured person, assets and activities.
  • Home-business or work-related use.
  • Personal liability and excluded professional services.
  • Any separate business or commercial requirements.

Example to discuss

If tools are carried for work in a privately owned car, ask about both vehicle use and the tools themselves instead of assuming one personal policy answers both.

This is a hypothetical comparison, not a customer claim or a determination of cover.

Sources and further reading

General information only. The policy, schedule and applicable rules determine the actual position. For a personal decision, use an appropriately qualified adviser or the relevant provider.

Sources

References used in this guide