Definition: Uncontrollable Natural Events Beyond Human Control
An act of God in insurance terms refers to an uncontrollable natural event such as tornadoes, floods, tsunamis, earthquakes, or severe storms that is not caused or controlled by humans and could not have been prevented by reasonable foresight or care.
Key Characteristics of an Act of God
Events That Qualify as Acts of God
Comprehensive List
Important example: A fire that starts when lightning strikes is an act of God; a fire from knocking over a candle is not.
Events That Do NOT Qualify as Acts of God
Acts of God vs. Force Majeure
Force majeure clauses in contracts (including insurance) may include broader language like “any other event beyond the reasonable control of a party”.
Coverage Under Moving Insurance
Standard Moving Valuation Coverage
Does NOT cover Acts of God:
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Released Value Protection ($0.60/lb): No act of God coverage
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Full Value Protection ($6/lb): No act of God coverage
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Limited to mover’s negligence only
Third-Party Insurance
Covers Acts of God:
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Fire
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Lightning
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Windstorm
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Flood
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Earthquake
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Other natural disasters
Must purchase separately through specialty providers offering Master Certificate Programs.
Regional Variations
What qualifies varies by location:
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US: Floods and earthquakes often excluded from standard homeowners policies
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UK: Flooding, severe storms, high winds, earthquakes, landslides, subsidence
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Catchall clauses: May broaden scope with language like “any other event beyond reasonable control”
Why the Definition Matters for Moving Claims
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Liability protection: Moving companies can avoid liability for damages caused by acts of God
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Coverage gaps: Standard valuation coverage excludes these events entirely
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Third-party insurance necessity: Only third-party insurance provides act of God coverage for movers
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Claims disputes: Determining whether damage was caused by act of God vs. mover negligence affects claim approval
Practical Implications for Your Move
If your belongings are damaged during transport:
Bottom line: For protection against natural disasters during your move, you must purchase third-party insurance rather than relying on standard moving valuation coverage.