> one word came to mind, INSURANCE!!
> Not just in case of fire, but what happens if there is an accident on the
> road, or for matter one in the water.

Good question, and one that few people stop to think about. I'm an insurance agent in PA, (20+ years). Personal insurance (homeowners & auto) is an important part of our business. Mark is right. The specific coverage will vary somewhat from state to state, and also slightly from insurance company to insurance company - but IN GENERAL TERMS here's what you get automatically included in EITHER your HOMEOWNERS or TENANT/RENTERs policy. Personal Property (your boat & gear) 1 Covered anywhere in the world 2 $$1,000 limit for watercraft, including ther trailers, furnishings, and

equipment 3 Your boat & equipment is covered for loss caused by: Fire, lightning, wind, hail, explosion, riot, civil commotion, aircraft, vehicles, smoke, vandalism

malicious mischief, theft, falling objects, weight of ice, snow or sleet

(the boat must be inside a building damaged by the ice, etc), etc, etc

all topped off with damage due to volcanic eruption. That's the standard "preperty" part of the coverage. The policy also gives you PERSOANL LIABILITY coverage. You're automatically covered for BODILY INJURY & PROPERTY DAMAGE (to others)that results from your negligent use of: Small sailboats, outboards, row boats, canoes and kayaks.

Most insurance companies offer a low cost endorsement that will allow you to INCREASE the standard $1,000 limit to your kayak's actual value. The problem here, of course is 1 establishing the value and 2 confirmng that it's agreed to as a starting point. In the world of claims adjusting boats are seen as a depreciating asset. Review your coverage. Find out if your loss will be depreciated (you'll get less for it than the cost of a replacement) or if you'll be paid for Replacement Cost. In either case - your policy's deductible (usually $250) will apply.

I'd be happy to respond to any questions - in the meantime - happy building & boating.