Life Insurance cover is calculated according to risk, so there are some common life insurance exclusions, such as chronic illness or engaging in dangerous activities, that could mean a policy is denied or an insurer is unwilling to pay out when the policyholder dies.Life Insurance exclusions may vary, but the typical exclusions are:Genetic illnessesAlcohol, drug or smoking relatedHealth and lifestyle related e.g obesitySuicideHigh risk sportsHigh risk jobsMilitary or war-relatedReckless activity e.g drink driving1. Genetic illnesses and pre-existing medical conditionsThere are a number of illnesses that a Group Life Insurance provider may count as an exclusion, including genetic conditions such as inherited heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and mental illness. You are required to let your Life Insurance provider know about any pre-existing medical conditions—even if you have recovered—so they can assess how it might affect your life expectancy.2. Health and lifestyle related causesInsurance companies may have standard exclusions in their Life Insurance policies for smokers or heavy drinkers, who will have an increased risk of heart, lung and liver disease that will shorten their life expectancy. You will also need to let your policy provider know if you are an ex-smoker.Similarly, if you are obese or have an eating disorder you may be at greater risk of developing various illnesses or conditions.Certain jobs may also be considered high-risk, such as working in construction, on an oil rig or in the armed forces.While you may still be eligible for cover, a Life Insurance policy may not pay out if you die as a result of taking part in extreme sports such as mountaineering, parachuting or hang gliding.3. Self-inflicted causesLife Insurance providers will not pay out if someone dies as a result of taking drugs or drink-driving, or if they take their own life. Read our blog for more information about whether Life Insurance pays out for suicide, drink-driving or cancer.Can I avoid Life Insurance exclusions?Some exclusions are common across all insurers, however, if you are turned down by one insurer, you may have other options.Compare different insurers: There are a number of Life Insurance companies who are willing to consider different health conditions and circumstances. For instance, some insurers may be more lenient with smokers, while others may offer policies for the armed forces—this is often reflected in the cost of the Life Insurance premium.Make lifestyle changes: Your insurance premium is always subject to change and you can compare prices from other insurers and save money if you make important lifestyle changes. This could involve quitting smoking, losing weight or choosing a less risky job.Always read the small print to check exclusionsThe exclusions for a Life Insurance policy will always be documented in the small print, which is available before you agree to a policy and once a policy is in place.The small print will confirm all of the policy’s inclusions and exclusions so that you have a full understanding of what you are covered for.Make sure you tell your insurer everything they need to knowIt is vital that you submit all necessary information to your insurer when you apply, including details of any genetic or pre-existing conditions, whether you smoke, your work and any hobbies that may be relevant. This will ensure that your loved ones and beneficiaries will be able to make a successful claim in the event of your death.