Home Insurance
What does home insurance cover?
Understanding what's covered—and what's not—helps you choose the right policy and avoid surprises when you file a claim.
Coverage overview
What home insurance covers
Understanding what's included in a standard home insurance policy—and what might require additional coverage.
Typically covered
- Dwelling (Your Home's Structure)Covers damage to your house from fire, wind, hail, lightning, vandalism, and other covered perils.
- Other Structures (Garage, Shed, Fence)Typically covered at 10% of your dwelling coverage. Includes detached garages, sheds, and fences.
- Personal Property (Furniture, Electronics)Covers belongings inside your home. Usually 50-70% of dwelling coverage. High-value items may need scheduling.
- Loss of Use (Additional Living Expenses)Pays for hotel, meals, and other costs if you can't live in your home after a covered loss.
- Personal LiabilityCovers legal fees and damages if someone is injured on your property or you cause damage to others.
- Medical Payments to OthersPays medical bills for guests injured on your property, regardless of fault. Usually $1,000-$5,000.
- Fire and Smoke DamageOne of the most common claims. Includes damage from smoke even if fire doesn't reach an area.
- Theft and VandalismCovers stolen or damaged property. File a police report to support your claim.
- Wind and Hail DamageCovered in most policies, but some coastal areas have separate wind deductibles or exclusions.
- Water Damage from Burst PipesSudden and accidental water damage is covered. Gradual leaks that you ignored may not be.
Usually not covered
- Flood DamageAdd-on availableRequires separate flood insurance policy. Available through NFIP or private insurers.
- Earthquake DamageAdd-on availableRequires separate earthquake policy in most states.
- Sewer/Water BackupAdd-on availableOften excluded but available as an endorsement. Highly recommended.
- Mold (Beyond Covered Perils)Mold from a covered water loss may be covered. Ongoing mold issues typically aren't.
- Normal Wear and MaintenanceInsurance covers sudden, accidental damage—not deferred maintenance or aging.
- Pest Damage (Termites, Rodents)Pest control and damage from infestations is the homeowner's responsibility.
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