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.
The above is meant as general information. This information does not modify any provisions, limitations, or exclusions expressly stated in any insurance policy. Descriptions of all coverages and other features on this page are necessarily brief; in order to fully understand the coverages and other features of a specific insurance policy, we encourage you to read the applicable policy. Whether an accident or other loss is covered is subject to the terms and conditions of the actual insurance policy or policies involved in the claim. References to general claims handling steps, average or typical premiums, amounts of losses, deductibles, costs of coverages/repair, etc., are illustrative and may not apply to your situation.
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