What does the term 'entire contract' refer to in a policy provision?

The term 'entire contract' in a policy provision refers to the complete agreement between the insurer and the insured, which includes both the insurance policy and the application submitted by the insured. This means that the entire contract includes all the contractual terms, conditions, and rights that are established and agreed upon when the insurance policy is issued.

The importance of this provision lies in its role in ensuring that all representations made by the insured during the application process are considered part of the contract. This protects both parties by preventing either side from claiming the existence of additional agreements or modifications outside of what is documented in the policy and application. Therefore, when a dispute arises, the insurer and the insured can refer solely to the entire contract to clarify obligations and expectations.

By including both the application and the policy itself, this provision contributes to the integrity and clarity of the insurance contract, ensuring that all parties have a mutual understanding of the coverage and terms that have been agreed upon.