If your home is heated with oil, here’s an important question:
Does your homeowners insurance policy cover you if there’s an oil leak or spill?
Most standard homeowners policies in Massachusetts do not automatically include coverage for property damage or liability resulting from an escaped liquid fuel spill—even if the leak originates from your own oil tank.
This means that cleanup, repairs, or liability for neighboring property damage may not be covered unless you’ve added a specific endorsement to your policy.
The Oil Spill Endorsement: What It Covers
Many insurance companies offer an optional endorsement that provides coverage for:
✅ Cleanup and remediation costs after a heating oil spill
✅ Damage to your home and personal property
✅ Temporary living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable
✅ Liability protection if the leak causes damage to someone else’s property
This endorsement is typically called something like Property Remediation for Escaped Liquid Fuel and Limited Liability Coverage. It is specifically designed to respond to oil spills that originate from your home heating fuel system.
How to Qualify for This Coverage
In order to add this coverage, insurance companies in Massachusetts require you to complete a state-mandated inspection form. This is to certify that your oil system meets safety standards and includes either:
-
An oil safety valve, or
-
A continuous non-metallic sleeve that encases the oil supply lines
This must be confirmed by a licensed oil burner technician and documented on:
👉 Form 1A – Certificate of Compliance
Once completed, this form should be submitted to your insurance agent and your local fire department. Only then can coverage be considered for endorsement to your policy.
Why This Protection Is So Important
An escaped oil incident—even a minor one—can cause:
-
Soil or structural contamination
-
Government-mandated environmental cleanup
-
Significant property damage
-
Uninhabitable living conditions
-
Potential legal action from third parties
Without this coverage, you could be left to pay for these costs out of pocket.
Take the Next Step
🔹 Need a Quote?
If you’re not yet a Risman Insurance client, we’re happy to help you explore your options.
👉 Click here to request a quote.
🔹 Already a client?
We can review your policy and discuss whether this endorsement is right for you.
👉 Click here to request additional information.
Disclaimer: Availability of this endorsement and its specific terms vary by insurance company. Coverage is not guaranteed and may be subject to underwriting review and eligibility requirements. Always consult your licensed insurance agent to review your current coverage and determine the best protection for your situation.
Risman Insurance Agencies
Helping you protect what matters most—at home and beyond.
Recent Comments