According to the Insurance Act, what must a policy insuring against fire also cover?

A policy insuring against fire must also cover the explosion of natural, coal, or manufactured gas due to the nature of the risks associated with fire policies. The rationale behind this requirement is that fires can lead to explosions, particularly when flammable gases are present. As such, it is essential for insurance policies that cover fire damage to also include coverage for explosions, ensuring that policyholders are adequately protected against related risks that often co-occur with fire incidents. This provision helps to mitigate potential financial losses that could arise from both fire and any subsequent explosions, providing a more comprehensive safety net for insured properties.

Considering the other options, they don't typically fall within the standard coverages mandated for fire insurance policies under such regulations. Earthquake damage, flood and water damage, and hail damage represent distinct risks that are usually addressed under separate coverage types or specialized policies rather than being included under a standard fire insurance policy. Hence, the focus on covering gas explosions highlights the interconnected nature of these specific risks in the context of fire insurance.