For many people, purchasing a home is one of the most expensive financial decisions they will ever make. Given the significance of such an investment, it’s necessary for you to ensure your property and family are protected by a robust and diverse insurance portfolio. With that in mind, a home insurance policy may prove to be an invaluable investment. 

What Does Home Insurance Cover? 

Home insurance, or homeowners insurance, can provide critical financial assistance in response to many common risks and perils. Although details may vary among policies, standard home insurance generally can help policyholders respond to the following: 

• Fires

• Explosions

• Lightning

• Windstorms

• Hail

• Theft

• Vandalism

• Damage caused by vehicles or aircraft

• Falling objects (e.g., trees, tree limbs)

How Does Home Insurance Work? 

While home insurance may generally be considered coverage for your residence, it can also provide additional financial protection for other aspects of your life. In most cases, your home insurance policy can help recoup losses related to the following: 

• Primary residence—Your coverage can help provide financial assistance to repair or rebuild your home.

• Detached structures—If you have additional structures on your property, such as garages and sheds, this coverage can help pay for repairs if they are damaged.

• Possessions—If the contents of your home, such as appliances, electronics, furniture and clothes, are damaged or destroyed by a covered event, your insurance can help recoup your losses.

• Liability coverage—If you or another insured are responsible for the losses of a third party, such as a passerby’s bodily injury or a neighbor’s property damage, this coverage can help insulate you from costs.

• Temporary living costs—If a covered event forces you to vacate your home temporarily, your insurance may help pay for resulting expenses, such as staying at a hotel or eating at restaurants.

How Much Does Home Insurance Cost? 

Like many types of insurance, the cost of suitable coverage for your home may vary significantly, even compared with others in your neighborhood or those who own similar property. Insurance companies must conduct a comprehensive analysis of your circumstances before being able to provide a quote. This process will usually consider the following criteria: 

• Location

• Age of home

• Construction details (e.g., type of home, materials used)

• Property details (e.g., attractive nuisances, security systems, valuable possessions)

• Policy details (e.g., coverage limits, endorsements, deductibles)

• Prior claims history

How Much Home Insurance Do I Need? 

Although home insurance is not generally required by law, if you have a mortgage, your lender will likely require you to carry coverage. As you shop for home insurance, it’s essential that you ensure your coverage will be sufficient to help you recoup losses from potential incidents. When determining your insurance needs, consider the following: 

• The cost of fully rebuilding your home

• Possessions that you would need to replace

• Potential liability risks (e.g., pets, swimming pools)

• Temporary expenses if forced to vacate your home

You should also be aware of any exclusions in standard home insurance that may leave you without sufficient coverage in the wake of an incident. For example, if you live in an area prone to hurricanes, be aware that most policies do not include coverage for them. 

Get the Right Coverage 

At Coverage Plus Insurance Agency, our dedicated staff have the knowledge and experience to help homeowners understand their coverage needs. We will work with you to assess your circumstances, explain your options and build suitable policies at optimal prices. Visit our website or call 408-626-7800 to get started today.