What does the "insurable interest" requirement entail?

The insurable interest requirement is a fundamental principle in insurance law that ensures a policyholder has a legitimate reason for purchasing an insurance policy on the life or property of another individual. This means that the policyholder must stand to suffer a financial loss or detriment if the insured individual or asset were to experience a loss, such as death or damage. This requirement prevents individuals from taking out insurance policies on lives or properties where they have no vested interest, which could lead to moral hazards or insurance fraud.

In life insurance, for example, a spouse typically has an insurable interest in their partner's life due to their financial dependency and emotional bonds. Similarly, a business partner may have an insurable interest in the life of another partner as their business relies on their collaboration. The insurable interest must exist at the time the insurance policy is taken out but does not have to be maintained throughout the life of the policy.

Understanding this principle is critical in ensuring that insurance serves its purpose of protection and risk management rather than speculation.