What does your homeowners insurance actually cover?

While homeowners like to imagine that their insurance will cover every risk that comes their way, this isn’t really the case.  From natural disasters to liability claims, your home insurance policy has limits.  Here’s what your homeowners insurance will cover when it comes to these common perils.

Do I have coverage for hurricane damage?

If your home is in the path of a hurricane or tropical storm, then your home may sustain damage from high winds, heavy rain, and extreme flooding.  Fortunately, your home insurance policy will offer coverage for the damages related to wind, rain, and hail.  However, if your home is damaged by floodwater, then your policy will not offer coverage for repairs.  The only way to secure flood coverage is with a specialty flood insurance policy.

Do I have coverage for theft?

Homeowners insurance covers theft both inside and outside your home.  For instance, if someone broke into your home and stole your television, then you would have coverage to replace your television and repair the damages the burglars caused.  If your phone was stolen while you were traveling, then your home insurance would also cover the cost of replacing your phone.

Homeowners insurance will only cover your belongings up to a certain coverage limit.  So, if you have high-value items that exceed these limits, then they will not be covered by your policy.  You can secure additional coverage for high-value items through policy endorsements or by securing specialty policies for specific items.

Do I have coverage for dog bites?

Typically, your home insurance will provide coverage if your dog bites someone on or off your property.  However, there are three main coverage exclusions:

  1. Your home insurance will not cover dog bites to someone covered under your policy (you or the immediate family members living in the household).
  2. Your insurance provider may exclude your dog from coverage if they have a history of biting.
  3. Your insurance provider may exclude your dog from coverage if it is considered “high-risk.” Certain breeds, such as pit bulls, Doberman pinschers, rottweilers, German shepherds, Siberian huskies, and so on are typically labeled “high-risk” by home insurers.

This is what your home insurance will cover when it comes to these common risks.  Do you have more questions about your homeowners insurance coverage?  If so, then contact the experts at Scavone Insurance Agency Center LLC in White Plains, New York.  Our dedicated team is eager to assist you with all your coverage needs today.

COVID-19 Update:

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak, our office is working with limited staff. We are requesting people to come in ONLY IF NECESSARY! We have all the resources to continue servicing your Insurance needs. Should you need to contact us, please call the office first!! 914-428-7111. You can also reach us by email [email protected], or fax 914-428-7764.
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