About David Thompson Expertise I can answer questions on homeowners, personal auto, business auto, commercial general liability, commercial property, and most other types of property and casualty subjects.
Experience I've been a licensed agent since 1987 and have been teaching insurance professional education classes since 1991, mostly in Florida.
Organizations I'm on staff at the Florida Association of Insurance Agents in Tallahassee. I am also on on the faculty of the Independent Insurance Agents of America Virtual University.
Education/Credentials Hold the CPCU, AAI, and API designations.
Question I am a metal sculptor. I live in a residential only area and so far I have been working out of my garage. I do not run any business there it is just my studio. Due to the nature of my hobby, I have to use welding and cutting that involve arc and gases such as oxygen and acetylene and a big air compressor. I “DO NOT” like to do anything out the legal frame of the insurance companies. Therefore my question is should I inform my insurance company about my activities? Does keeping these equipment and materials can cause a problem in case of a claim? I was reading my policy and it does not mention anything about hazardous materials, or hazardous hobbies like mine. I want to make sure that I am doing the right thing. What do you recommend me?
Thank you so much for your help.
Alfredo Alamo
Answer Alfredo:
As long as you do not make ANY money from this "hobby" then there isn't a coverage problem come claim time. If your profession involves using these machines and equipment then I'd be cautious of the "business exclusion" for liability. Still though, if your house burns I see no problem from a coverage standpoint. Unless the company asks, I would't volunteer the information. Of course if they do ask, be honest.
