Some policies will have some exclusions included in them. These are circumstances when the company will not pay out.

Examples of exclusions are:

• situations where illness or death is a result of alcohol or drug abuse
• self-inflicted harm or suicide
• where illness or death is a result of taking part in a criminal act, eg terrorism

In addition to the usual exclusions, in certain circumstances underwriters may feel it is necessary to include other exclusions relating specifically to your policy. A full list of exclusions will be included in the product literature, so make sure you read these carefully before you sign up.