What a policy is made of
- Dwelling — the structure itself. This should reflect what it would cost to rebuild, which is not the same as market value.
- Other structures — detached garage, shed, fence.
- Personal property — your belongings, subject to sublimits on certain categories.
- Loss of use — living expenses while your home is uninhabitable after a covered loss.
- Personal liability — if someone is injured on your property or you're held responsible for damage.
- Medical payments — smaller injuries to guests, regardless of fault.
The two decisions that matter most
Replacement cost vs actual cash value decides how much you actually get paid. Replacement cost pays to replace with new; actual cash value pays depreciated value, which may not fund a new roof. Check which applies to your dwelling and your personal property — they can differ inside the same policy.
The second is your dwelling limit. If you've renovated, finished a basement, or simply bought years ago, construction costs may have moved well past your limit. Being underinsured on the dwelling is the most expensive quiet mistake in home insurance.
The gaps worth closing
- Flood — never covered by a standard policy. Requires a separate flood policy.
- Sewer and drain backup — usually excluded, usually inexpensive to add. Essential with a finished basement.
- Scheduled jewelry and valuables — theft sublimits are low; high-value items need to be listed individually.
- Earthquake and earth movement — excluded, available separately.
Full breakdown: what homeowners insurance doesn't cover.
What we need to quote you
- Address, square footage and year built
- Roof age, and any updates to electrical, plumbing or HVAC
- Your current declarations page if you have one
Let's get you covered.
Tell us what you need and we'll shop it across our carriers — or just ask a question first.