What is an 'endorsement' in an insurance policy context?

In the context of an insurance policy, an endorsement is a document that modifies the original policy’s coverage or terms. Endorsements can add, remove, or alter coverage features, allowing both the insurer and policyholder to adapt their agreement to meet changing needs or specific circumstances. For example, a homeowner might add an endorsement to cover a newly acquired valuable item that wasn't included in their original policy, or a business might adjust its coverage limits through an endorsement after expanding operations.

This mechanism is crucial for ensuring that the insurance policy remains relevant and adequately reflects the current situation of the insured. The flexibility that endorsements provide enhances the overall utility of insurance policies, making it possible for policyholders to tailor their coverage as their circumstances evolve.