What requirement must be fulfilled to obtain homeowners insurance and qualify as an "insured" under the policy?

To qualify as an "insured" under a homeowners insurance policy, an individual must have an insurable interest in the property. This means that the person must stand to suffer a financial loss if the property is damaged or destroyed. Insurable interest is a foundational principle in insurance, ensuring that the policyholder has a legitimate risk that justifies the insurance coverage.

For example, a homeowner who fully owns their house clearly has an insurable interest, as the value of that property contributes directly to their personal financial stability. Similarly, a person who is a co-owner, or perhaps has invested in the property, also possesses an insurable interest that entitles them to coverage.

While ownership or primary residence status can be factors in qualifying for a policy, they don't establish the basis for insurable interest. Therefore, having an insurable interest is essential for being named as an "insured," as it directly relates to the financial responsibilities and potential losses the individual faces regarding the property.