Frequently Asked Questions About Markel Horse Insurance

Thank you for your interest in working with me as your Markel Equine Insurance Specialists. As a competitor, farm owner, organizer and sponsor, in the horse industry, I understand the needs and concerns of my clients and friends on many levels. Tracey Scharf and I are here to provide the personal service and attention you and your equines deserve. Here are a few questions we answer on a daily basis. Please give us a call at 800-572-3286, or email us mary.phelps@markel.com, and tracey.scharf@markel.com, and we will be happy to help you navigate your equine, farm and liability questions and concerns.

We get asked this all the time....

How does Markel handle emergencies after hours?

We are available after hours for emergency situations and can be reached by calling +1.800.446.7925. Our on-call representatives are ready to assist you 24/7.

When is it necessary to report a claim?

It is necessary to report a medical or surgical condition as soon as possible or immediately in the event of your horse’s death. If the horse is hospitalized, the policy requires we be notified within 24 hours of admission.

This is very important, as the sooner we get the information, the better we can serve you.

Your Claims Examiner will guide you through the claims process and explain your coverage so you can fully understand the policy benefits. The policy does not cover expenses incurred more than 60 days prior to your notice. Veterinary travel fees are also excluded.

Is there a time limit for sending in my bills?

The policy requires that you submit the vet report and the bills within 90 days after the onset of your horse’s treatment.

Does my policy cover diagnostics?

Yes, we pay a percentage, or a sub-limit for diagnostics for covered condition depending on your state.

Does Markel cover treatment for lameness?

Yes, with the exception of navicular syndrome, arthritis, and degenerative joint disease. Also, we do not pay for some treatments such as injections of synovial fluid stimulators and/or replacers including, but not limited to, corticosteroids, Adequan, Hyaluronic Acid, Legend and any associated/ related treatments.

Does the policy cover medications?

Yes. The policy does cover medications. Some medications and/or treatments must have certain veterinary diagnostic tests done in order to be eligible for coverage (Ex: Gastrogard, Marquis). Please contact us if you have any specific questions about the condition for which your horse may be tested or treated.

Are alternative therapies covered?

No, most equine insurance policies do not cover alternative therapies. If you have a question about a specific treatment you are considering, please contact our office.

Should my veterinarian bill me or Markel for services rendered?

The bills should be directed to you. You may have a deductible or co-pay that is your responsibility or the bill may include charges that the policy does not cover. Payments for covered charges will be issued promptly in the name of the policyholder.

What is guaranteed renewal?

The Guaranteed Renewal Endorsement provides you an additional year of mortality coverage with no exclusion should the horse become ill or injured during the policy period.

My policy is due to renew in the near future and my horse is still being treated for a medical condition. Does my coverage for related treatment end when the policy expires?

No. Your Medical/Surgical coverage extends for a period of 90 days past the policy’s expiration date for conditions that onset during the policy period AND that are reported as required by the policy. Therefore, coverage for related treatment will extend for an additional 90 days. Any covered charges will be paid up to the limits of the expiring policy.

Can I cover my horse equipment/tack on my horse insurance policy?

Yes, coverage is available at varying limits and deductibles for horse tack and equipment under our optional Equine Essentials Enhancement. Coverage can be added to your horse mortality policy.

Are necropsy and burial expenses included in my policy?

Yes. If you select the Equine Essentials Enhancement, expense reimbursement is provided for necropsy and burial of your horse if your horse dies, or must be humanely euthanized due to a covered loss.

NOTE: Policy coverages, terms, conditions and exclusions are only briefly outlined here. For complete provisions, please refer to the policy itself.

Products and services are provided by one or more of the insurance companies under the Markel North America Insurance Group and policyholder services are provided by the underwriting manager Markel Service, Incorporated, national producer number 27585. Terms and conditions for rate and coverage may vary. Markel® is a registered trademark of the Markel Corporation. ©2021 Markel Service, Incorporated. All rights reserved. Revision 03/15/202

This document is intended for general information purposes only, and should not be construed as advice or opinions on any specific facts or circumstances. The content of this document is made available on an “as is” basis, without warranty of any kind. This document can’t be assumed to contain every acceptable safety and compliance procedures or that additional procedures might not be appropriate under the circumstances. Markel does not guarantee that this information is or can be relied on for compliance with any law or regulation, assurance against preventable losses, or freedom from legal liability. This publication is not intended to be legal, underwriting, or any other type of professional advice. Persons requiring advice should consult an independent adviser. Markel does not guarantee any particular outcome and makes no commitment to update any information herein, or remove any items that are no longer accurate or complete. Furthermore, Markel does not assume any liability to any person or organization for loss or damage caused by or resulting from any reliance placed on that content.

*Markel Specialty is a business division of Markel Service, Incorporated, the underwriting manager for the Markel affiliated insurance companies. © 2022 Markel Service, Incorporated. All rights reserved.