Imagine your flock of chickens running about freely in your backyard until one of them is startled by a nearby dog and runs into a neighbours’ yard. Your neighbour may make a claim if they are scratched while attempting to return the chicken. You run the danger of having your policy terminated for failing to disclose your flock, and your claim may be rejected if your house insurance policy does not cover chickens.
Some insurance providers use satellite photography to keep an eye on properties. They may send a cancellation letter if they find unregistered poultry on your property. Furthermore, backyard hens may be restricted or outright prohibited by local legislation; always confirm municipal restrictions before committing.
Risks of Property Damage
As fugitives, backyard hens occasionally break into neighbour’s yards and cause damage. Your typical house insurance may not pay for repairs if your hens cause harm to someone else’s yard or property, leaving you open to legal action.
On the other hand, losses involving your coop or chickens are probably not covered by your house insurance policy. You might not get your money back if your coop is destroyed in a storm or if your hens are taken. Furthermore, your insurance could not protect you in court if someone gets sick after eating eggs you sell.
Since business operations are typically excluded from house insurance plans, selling eggs or poultry can be considered a business and necessitate additional coverage.
A Higher Chance of Unwanted Visitors
Like pools or trampolines, chickens are an irresistible annoyance—a fixture that draws unwanted visitors. A “No Trespassing” sign and a gated yard may not prevent curious kids or bystanders from entering your property. You might be responsible if your coop or birds hurt them.
Additionally, backyard hens draw wildlife, which raises the risks for your flock and the surrounding area. Doing extensive study is crucial if you are serious about rearing chickens.
Check Before Purchasing
Check state and local laws before buying a new house with plans for a chicken coop. Make sure your purchase agreement has a clause that lets you back out if backyard chickens are prohibited by zoning restrictions.
Example from Real Life:
In Massachusetts, a buyer of a house included hens as a contingency in their earnest payment of $97,000. But a title check turned up municipal ordinances that forbade backyard hens. The buyer won the case, and the seller was ordered to return the earnest money.
Remember that not every case will end the same way. Always check laws in advance and speak with your insurance agent to prevent issues.
Insurance for Hobby Farms: A Better Option
Hobby farm insurance may be required if you intend to grow hens for purposes other than your own pleasure, such as selling eggs or providing farm tours. This specific coverage guards against the following hazards related to backyard farming:
liability protection in the event that someone eats your eggs and gets sick.
Protection from extended liability in the event that someone is hurt by your poultry.
coverage for losses in the event that you have to put your flock down due to disease outbreaks like avian flu.
replenishment of business revenues in the event that unforeseen disruptions cause revenue loss.
For those thinking about small-scale agricultural enterprises, school visits, or agritourism, hobby farm insurance is extremely beneficial.
Speak with Us
Do your research before making a backyard chicken purchase. Examine regional laws, evaluate possible hazards, and speak with your insurance representative. Having the right insurance coverage will help safeguard your investment and your peace of mind, whether you are purchasing a new house or turning your backyard into a small farm.
Prior to purchasing backyard hens
