When determining eligibility for property coverage, it is important to distinguish between a log cabin and a log home. While they may look similar at a glance, their construction methods, heating sources, and year-round livability dictate our underwriting appetite.
Below is a breakdown of how we define each structure and what is acceptable for coverage.
| Feature | Log Home (Within Appetite) | Log Cabin (Ineligible) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Construction | Modern conventional framing with log siding or stacked logs | Stacked whole logs |
| Minimum Square Footage | 1,500 sq. ft. (Only required for stacked log construction) | Not accepted |
| Primary Heat Source | Thermostatically controlled / regulated | Non-thermostatically controlled (example: stove) |
| Utilization | Year-round living | Seasonal / Recreational |
Log Homes
A log home utilizes modern, conventional construction techniques to provide the aesthetic of a cabin with the safety, structural integrity, and climate control of a modern house.
To be eligible for coverage, a log home must be designed for year-round living, feature a primary heat source regulated by a thermostat, and meet one of the following construction criteria:
- Log Siding (Conventional Framing): Built using standard modern framing techniques, with half or flat log siding applied to the exterior and / or interior walls to mimic a log appearance.
- Stacked Logs: If the home is constructed using true stacked logs, it must be greater than or equal to 1,500 square feet to be considered for coverage.
Log Cabins
A log cabin is a traditional, rustic structure built by stacking whole logs on top of each other to form both the interior and exterior walls.
- Livability: Typically used as a seasonal hunting camp or vacation property; unsuitable for year-round living.
- Heating: Lacks a regulated, thermostatically controlled primary heat source (often relying solely on wood stoves or non-regulated space heaters).
- Appetite: Log cabins do not meet our underwriting guidelines and are out of appetite.
For further assistance, contact us via our webform or Live Chat.