Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free
Question

What is O&L coverage and why do I have it?

The insurance agent said my O&L coverage won’t pay for code upgrades. So what is this coverage for?

Jan 21, 2020 Franklin, KY

Answer
Author profile picture

Kristine Lee

Insurance Analyst

Kristine is a licensed insurance agent who joined The Zebra in 2019 as an in-house content researcher and writer. Before joining The Zebra, she was a…

Credentials
  • Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
  • 6+ years of Experience in the Insurance Industry

O and L stands for Ordinance and Law. Though your agent said that it wouldn't cover code upgrades, perhaps he meant that if a code went into law, your insurance isn't going to accept claims to upgrade the home and bring it up to code — unless your home suffers a loss.

What this coverage does is that if your home is damaged, you have additional funds to bring the building up to code with any new laws since the home was originally built. It is a good idea to have this coverage for older buildings to make sure any updates needed to the building are covered.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask.

Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free

Insurance is complicated, but it doesn't have to be.

The Zebra searches all of the top insurance companies, in one place, so you can compare the cost and coverage you need to protect your car, home and other property.

Step 1: Tell us a little about yourself

Choose an insurance product and enter your zip code to get started.

Step 2: Sip your coffee while we find the best quotes

Enter the necessary information and then sit back while we find quotes from 100 top insurance carriers.

Icon Fill Form

Step 3: Compare your quotes

Compare quotes side-by-side to find the right match for you, whether it's home, auto, or more.

Icon Agent

Step 4: Let our agents do the hard work for you

Once you pick your policy, our agents are here to get you over the finish line. Then just relax and enjoy your savings.

Compare home insurance quotes today!

No junk mail. No spam calls. Free quotes.

Related Questions

Other people are also asking...

What is the difference between a DP-1 and a DP-3 policy?

This is an excellent question, thanks for asking! Home insurance can definitely be confusing.The "DP" in DP-1 and DP-3 stands for "Dwelling Policy."  These policies are typically reserved for homes that you own that are rented to a tenant. Dwelling policies may also apply to vac…
Dec 19, 2022 Columbus, OH

Will an insurance company let you underinsure a home?

Thank you for reaching out to The Zebra! Every insurance company is a little bit different. Most will not allow you to insure a home underneath its replacement cost. Here at The Zebra, we do not sell any home or rental properties for less than their replacement cost. One option that might fit your …
Dec 19, 2023 Lexington, KY

Is the type of siding on a house, like vinyl, a rating factor for insurance premiums?

There is no straight-forward answer to what building materials you use for your house and the homeowners insurance rate you will end up with. Here's a tip to keep in mind that may help you make a decision: brick, stucco, and concrete are preferred by most insurers because they tend to be flame…
Sep 2, 2019 Athens, GA

What if I can't pay my insurance while furloughed?

This is a great question, whether you're a government employee or not. If the government shutdown delays your paycheck, it can be stressful to keep up with home and car insurance payments, but most insurers are prepared to help.Start by calling your insurance company as soon as possible. Many insur…
Oct 22, 2025 Arlington, VA