Home & Property
DP-1 (Dwelling Fire Basic Form)
The most basic dwelling fire policy, covering only fire, lightning, and internal explosion on a landlord or non-owner-occupied property.
Last reviewed: May 2026 · Editorial methodology
Definition
The DP-1 is the stripped-down entry point of the dwelling policy series, intended for rental properties, vacant homes, or properties that don't qualify for standard homeowners forms. Only three perils are covered: fire, lightning, and internal explosion — making it a bare-minimum option suitable mainly when broad coverage isn't available. Claims are settled on an actual cash value basis, meaning depreciation reduces every payout. Liability coverage for the property owner is not included in the base DP-1 and must be added separately. Landlords who need affordable coverage for a distressed or vacant property often turn to DP-1 policies as a bridge solution. Premium costs are low, but the gaps in coverage are significant; most insurance advisors recommend DP-2 or DP-3 when those forms are available.
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Cover Forge USA Editorial Team
Editorial Lead
This article was researched and written by the Cover Forge USA editorial team against federal sources (NAIC, CMS, FEMA, DOL, SSA, state DOIs) and standard policy forms. Bylines organize content by topic — they do not assert individual licensure. See our editorial-policy for details.
Reviewed 2026-06-14
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