Policy exclusions

Policy exclusions define the negative scope of insurance cover by excluding particular causes, events, property, persons, conduct or periods. They affect risk pricing and prevent cover for uninsurable, unacceptable or separately priced exposures, such as intentional acts, war risks or wear and tear. Under Swiss insurance practice, exclusions must be read with the insuring clause, definitions and mandatory law. Clear drafting and fair presentation are important, especially for consumer policies. Ambiguous exclusions may be interpreted restrictively, and some limitations may be invalid if they conflict with mandatory protections.