F.C.&S.: A Comprehensive Guide to Free of Capture and Seizure in Marine Insurance

Definition & Meaning

F.C. & S. stands for "free of capture and seizure." This term refers to a specific clause in marine insurance policies that excludes coverage for damages or losses resulting from events such as war, capture, or seizure of property. Essentially, if a vessel or cargo is lost due to hostile acts, such as rebellion or civil strife, the insurance policy will not cover these losses unless a separate war risk policy is purchased, which typically incurs an additional premium.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

For instance, if a shipping vessel is seized by pirates during a voyage, the losses incurred would not be covered under a standard marine insurance policy with an F.C. & S. clause. The ship owner would need to have a separate war risk policy to claim any damages (hypothetical example).

Comparison with related terms

Term Description
Marine insurance A type of insurance covering loss or damage of ships, cargo, and terminals.
War risk policy A separate insurance policy that covers losses due to war-related events.
General average A principle in maritime law where all parties share losses from a voluntary sacrifice of part of the ship or cargo.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in marine shipping and your insurance policy includes an F.C. & S. clause, consider evaluating your coverage needs. If your operations may be affected by war or civil unrest, it may be prudent to obtain a war risk policy. Users can explore US Legal Forms for templates to assist in acquiring the necessary insurance documentation.

Quick facts

  • Typical fees: Additional premium for war risk policy varies based on risk assessment.
  • Jurisdiction: Governed by maritime law and specific insurance regulations.
  • Possible penalties: Non-compliance with insurance terms can lead to denied claims.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

F.C. & S. stands for "free of capture and seizure," a clause in marine insurance policies.