An agreement wherein the insurer’s obligation to provide coverage hinges upon the occurrence of a specific event or the fulfillment of particular conditions by the insured party. For instance, a homeowner’s policy may only pay out for water damage if the homeowner can demonstrate they took reasonable steps to maintain plumbing and prevent leaks. The policyholder’s actions directly influence the insurer’s responsibility to provide recompense.
Such an arrangement fosters responsible behavior by policyholders. It incentivizes individuals and organizations to proactively manage risk and adhere to prescribed safeguards, thereby reducing the likelihood of claims. Historically, these types of insurance instruments have evolved to address moral hazard, ensuring a fairer and more sustainable risk-sharing arrangement between the insurer and the insured. The presence of specific contingencies allows insurers to accurately assess and price risk, making insurance products more accessible and financially viable for a broader range of individuals and businesses.