Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 48.205.050 — Exclusions — Waiting periods — Requirements., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 48.205.050. Exclusions — Waiting periods — Requirements.
(1) A pet insurer may issue policies that exclude coverage on the basis of one or more preexisting conditions with appropriate disclosure to the consumer. The pet insurer has the burden of proving that the preexisting condition exclusion applies to the condition for which a claim is being made.
(2)(a) A pet insurer may issue policies that impose waiting periods upon effectuation of the policy that do not exceed 30 days for illnesses or orthopedic conditions not resulting from an accident. Waiting periods for accidents are prohibited. Waiting periods may not be applied to renewals of existing coverage.
(b) A pet insurer utilizing a waiting period permitted in (a) of this subsection shall include a provision in its policy that allows the waiting periods to be waived upon completion of a medical examination. Pet insurers may require the examination to be conducted by a licensed veterinarian after the purchase of the policy.
(c) A medical examination under (b) of this subsection must be paid for by the policyholder, unless the policy specifies that the pet insurer will pay for the examination.
(d) A pet insurer can specify elements to be included as part of the examination and require documentation thereof, provided the specifications do not unreasonably restrict a consumer's ability to waive the waiting periods listed in (a) of this subsection.
(3) A pet insurer may not require a veterinary examination of the covered pet for the insured to have their policy renewed.
(4) If a pet insurer includes any prescriptive, wellness, or noninsurance benefits in the policy form, then it is made part of the policy contract and must follow all applicable laws and regulations in the insurance code.
(5) An insured's eligibility to purchase a pet insurance policy must not be based on participation, or lack of participation, in a separate wellness program.
Notes
Effective date—2023 c 42: See note following RCW
48.205.010.
Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 48.205.050
What does Revised Code of Washington § 48.205.050 cover?
Section 48.205.050 ("Exclusions — Waiting periods — Requirements.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Washington § 48.205.050?
A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 48.205.050" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Washington law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.
How does Washington § 48.205.050 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.
