What does "occurrence" refer to in general liability policies?

In general liability policies, "occurrence" specifically refers to an accident or event that causes bodily injury or property damage during the policy period. This definition is crucial because it establishes the basis for coverage—the insurance is designed to protect against unexpected incidents that lead to claims. In the context of a general liability policy, an occurrence can cover a range of incidents, such as slips and falls on a property, accidents involving products sold, or even negligence that leads to injury.

The other options do not align with this definition. A termination of an insurance policy pertains to the policy's status rather than the events that trigger claims. The absence of people in a building or a property being unoccupied are not relevant to what constitutes an occurrence in terms of general liability coverage. Therefore, recognizing an occurrence as an accident leading to personal injury or property damage is fundamental for understanding the coverage offered by general liability policies.