Declarations Page
Plain English
The declarations page, often called the "dec page," is your policy's one-page summary: what's insured, for how long, how much each coverage pays at most, your deductibles, your premium, and the add-ons attached. It's the fastest way to see your numbers, but it doesn't show what the policy excludes.
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On this page
Definition
The declarations page is the summary page of an insurance policy, usually the first page. It lists who and what is insured, the policy period, each coverage with its limit, the deductibles, the premium, and the forms and endorsements that make up the policy. It summarizes the policy; the full policy wording, including its definitions, conditions and exclusions, decides how a claim is handled.
Why It Matters
Lenders, landlords and clients often ask for it as proof of coverage, and it's where most people check their limits and deductibles. It's also where surprises hide in plain sight: a separate percentage deductible for wind or hurricanes, or an endorsement listed only by form number.
Real-World Example
Imagine a homeowners declarations page with these lines: "Policy period: 03/01/2026 to 03/01/2027." "Coverage A, Dwelling: $350,000." "Coverage B, Other Structures: $35,000." "All other perils deductible: $1,000. Windstorm or hail deductible: 2% of Coverage A." "Forms and endorsements: HO 00 03; HO 04 95." Reading it line by line: the house is insured up to $350,000; detached structures up to $35,000; most losses carry a $1,000 deductible, but wind and hail carry 2% of $350,000, which is $7,000; and two forms make up the policy, whose wording should be read for what they include.
Common Misconceptions
- Treating the declarations page as the whole policy. Exclusions, conditions and definitions are in the policy forms it lists.
- Reading only the main deductible. A separate percentage deductible may be listed further down.
- Assuming a coverage that isn't listed doesn't exist. It may be included in the policy form without its own line, so check the form or ask.
Key Takeaways
- The Texas Department of Insurance: "The first page of your policy is the declarations page. It has a summary of your policy, including your coverages, dollar limits, and deductibles."
- The NAIC glossary describes declarations as "policy statements regarding the applicant and property covered."
- New Jersey's insurance regulator tells policyholders to refer to the declarations page "for information on deductibles and the specific limits of your policy."
- Read it at each renewal, and compare it with last year's, to spot changes in limits, deductibles and endorsements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I get my declarations page?
It's usually the first page of the policy documents your insurer sends, and most insurers also offer it in their app or online account. Your agent can send a copy.
Is the declarations page proof of insurance?
It's often accepted as proof that a policy exists, with its limits and dates. Some lenders or landlords ask for a specific document instead, such as an insurance card or a certificate.
What isn't on the declarations page?
Most of the conditions, definitions and exclusions. Those are in the policy forms and endorsements the page lists.
What's it commonly confused with?
The full policy. The declarations page is the summary; the policy is the contract.
Related Terms
Related Coverages
- Homeowners Insurance
- Auto Insurance
Related Scenarios
Explore the rest of the Core Insurance category.
Browse Core Insurance terms →Sources
The factual claims on this page were checked against these sources. Rules and figures change, so check the source itself if you need to confirm the current version.
- Home insurance guideTexas Department of Insurance
- Glossary of Insurance TermsNational Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)
- Dwelling Fire Insurance: summary of coverage (Exhibit E)New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance
Educational information, not advice: This page is for general education only, not legal, financial, or insurance advice. Actual coverage, discounts, and requirements depend on your policy’s wording, your insurer, and the laws of your state. Confirm specifics with your own insurer or a licensed agent before making a decision. Insurpedia does not sell insurance and does not recommend specific insurers.