In the context of insurance agreements, what is a fundamental requirement for a contract to be valid?

For an insurance contract to be valid, full disclosure of risks is essential. This principle is rooted in the concept of “utmost good faith” or “uberrima fides,” which requires all parties involved in an insurance agreement to act honestly and disclose all relevant information. The insurer relies on the information provided by the insured to assess risk and determine the terms of coverage, such as premiums and exclusions.

If the insured fails to fully disclose material facts or risks that could affect the insurer's decision, it may lead to invalidation of the contract or denial of claims. This requirement ensures transparency and fairness within the insurance transaction, enabling both parties to have a clear understanding of the risks involved. The integrity of the insurance framework depends significantly on this mutual trust and the full sharing of pertinent information. Thus, full disclosure of risks is indeed a fundamental requirement for a valid insurance contract.