What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?

Homeowners insurance policies can cover a variety of things. The basic ones however all cover you in case of damages that occur because of fire, severe storms, tornados and hurricanes. The coverage includes damages to your home, the property is on and the possessions inside. However there are many other add-on coverages you can get such as liability coverage that will protect you in case certain injuries occur within your home. And there is dwelling coverage, too, which protects your outstanding buildings like storage sheds or fences. Finally you can purchase loss of use coverage which helps pay for expenses incurred when you can’t live in your home.

As far as the basics go there are many items that are typically covered that people don’t often consider. For instance most people are aware that the home itself is covered. But, any extensions or attachments such as greenhouses or pool houses are also included in the policy. Additionally, many policies cover any rental units that are considered a part of your home, such as a carriage house.

Again, you may realize that the property your house is on is covered, but did you know this included your lawn and landscaping such as trees, flowerbeds and shrubbery? And any vacant land that you own or rent is also covered, with the exception of farmland.

Loss of use coverage helps pay for any and all living expenses you and your family incur in the case that your house is damaged so badly that you cannot live there. Besides that if you rent out part of your home to tenants and it is unlivable your rental payments will be covered under your policy as well.

Possessions are clearly covered including the personal contents of your house as well as any other buildings on your property. Additionally any possessions belonging to guests staying in your home when the damage happened are covered as well. And any items you may have been borrowing or storing from friends are covered. However, most policies do not cover any tenant possessions.

One thing that is generally not covered in homeowners insurance include mold and water damage. This is due to a large increase in mold-related claims in Texas, Florida, Nevada, California and Arizona. Another is war, nuclear accidents and terrorism. This doesn’t mean you aren’t protected in case of riots, however.

Also, natural disaster coverage often depends on where you live. If you are in a remote location for instance you may not be covered for wildfires. Basically, the more likely a natural disaster happening in your area, the less likely you are to be covered for it.

Finally, intentional damage is rarely covered in certain circumstances. If a person living in the house causes the damage it typically won’t be covered. Or if they are on the property deed and not living there the damage can still not be covered.