# What is property damage liability?

> Property damage liability pays for covered damage you cause to someone else's vehicle or property.

Glossary date: January 19, 2026.

## How it works

Covered property can include another car, a fence, a building, or a road sign. This coverage does not repair your own vehicle.

## Example

You slide into a parked car and damage its door. Property damage liability may pay the repair cost up to your limit.

## Why it matters

Modern vehicles and roadside structures can be expensive to repair, so a small limit may run out.

## What to check on your policy

Look for the property damage amount in your liability limits and note whether it is a per-accident limit.

Coverage, definitions, limits, and legal requirements vary by policy and state. Your declarations page and policy forms control your coverage.

## Related terms

- [Liability coverage](https://locations.goautoinsurance.com/car-insurance-glossary/liability-coverage.md)
- [Bodily injury liability](https://locations.goautoinsurance.com/car-insurance-glossary/bodily-injury-liability.md)
- [Policy limit](https://locations.goautoinsurance.com/car-insurance-glossary/policy-limit.md)

- [Car insurance guide](https://locations.goautoinsurance.com/car-insurance-guide.md)
- [Complete glossary](https://locations.goautoinsurance.com/car-insurance-glossary.md)