What does it mean for the insured to 'protect the property'?

The concept of 'protecting the property' refers to the actions taken by the insured to prevent any further damage after an event that may trigger an insurance claim. This involves taking reasonable steps to secure the property from potential risks such as vandalism or additional injuries that could worsen its condition.

For instance, if a property has suffered damage from a storm, the insured is expected to mitigate further risks by taking measures like boarding windows, removing debris, and making temporary repairs to avoid exacerbating the situation. This proactive approach is essential not only to safeguard the property but also to fulfill the obligations under the insurance policy, which typically requires that the insured take reasonable steps to protect the property from further loss.

The other options do not reflect the intended meaning of 'protecting the property,' as selling or transferring ownership does not mitigate damage, neglecting issues can lead to larger problems, and taking no action may result in increased losses or complications with an insurance claim.