Marinas, in an effort to control rising insurance costs, are inserting language in slip contracts that shift liability to the slip holder. Boaters could have to pay for injuries, lawyers and damages out of pocket—even if the marina is to blame—if the boat insurance policy doesn’t include contractual liability.

Boaters should check their marina slip contract against their boat’s insurance policy, keeping an eye out for language like “hold harmless and indemnify” and “defend and indemnify”. Contractual liability coverage protects against these policy changes.

Contractual liabilities are excluded from many boat insurance policies.