Things Homeowners Often Ask

What does a standard home insurance plan include?

A standard plan usually covers your home's structure, personal belongings, and liability if someone gets injured on your property. It also includes coverage for temporary living expenses if your home becomes unlivable after a covered event.

Can I adjust my coverage after signing up?

Absolutely. You can increase or reduce your coverage at any time. If you renovate your home or buy new items that need protecting, just reach out and we'll update your plan to reflect the changes.

How fast can I get a claim settled?

Most straightforward claims are processed within a few business days. For larger or more involved claims, we assign a dedicated contact to keep you updated every step of the way so nothing feels unclear.

Does home insurance cover flooding?

Flood damage is not part of a standard home insurance plan. However, we offer add-on coverage specifically for flood protection. If your home is in a flood-prone area, we'll help you figure out the best option.

What factors affect my premium?

Several things play a role - the size of your home, its age, location, building materials, and the level of coverage you choose. Safety features like smoke detectors and security systems can also bring your cost down.

Is renter's insurance the same as home insurance?

Not quite. Renter's insurance covers your personal belongings and liability, but not the building itself. Home insurance covers the full structure plus everything inside. If you own the property, home insurance is what you need.

Are natural disasters like earthquakes covered?

Earthquake damage is typically not covered under a standard home insurance policy. However, we offer separate earthquake coverage that can be added to your plan if you live in a high-risk area.

What's the difference between actual cash value and replacement cost?

Actual cash value pays what your property is worth today after depreciation. Replacement cost covers the full amount needed to replace or repair with similar quality items. We recommend replacement cost coverage for better protection.

How much personal liability coverage do I need?

Most policies start with coverage between $100,000 and $300,000. We generally recommend at least $300,000 in liability protection, and more if you have substantial assets or frequently host guests at your home.

Can I bundle home insurance with other policies?

While we focus exclusively on home insurance, bundling isn't something we currently offer. However, our standalone policies are competitively priced and designed to give you the best coverage for your property.

What happens if I miss a payment?

We understand things happen. You'll receive a notice and a grace period to make the payment before any coverage changes. We always work with customers to keep their protection active.

Does home insurance cover damage from pests?

Standard policies generally don't cover pest damage like termites or rodents, as this is considered preventable maintenance. However, if pest damage leads to a covered event like structural collapse, that may be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Will filing a claim increase my premium?

It depends on the type and frequency of claims. A single claim for a covered event usually has minimal impact. However, multiple claims within a short period may affect your rate at renewal. We review each situation individually.

How does my deductible work?

Your deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in. For example, if you have a $1,000 deductible and $5,000 in covered damages, you pay $1,000 and we cover the remaining $4,000.

Can I get coverage for my home-based business?

Standard home insurance has limited coverage for business property and liability. If you run a business from home, we recommend discussing your needs so we can suggest the right add-on coverage or separate policy.

What's covered if a tree falls on my house?

If a tree falls due to a covered event like a storm or lightning, damage to your home is typically covered. However, if the tree fell due to neglect or disease, coverage may not apply. We also cover debris removal in most cases.

Are my valuable items like jewelry fully covered?

Standard policies have coverage limits for high-value items like jewelry, art, and collectibles. If you own valuable possessions, we recommend scheduling them separately or adding a rider to ensure full protection.

What if my home is unoccupied for an extended period?

Most policies require you to notify us if your home will be vacant for more than 30 consecutive days. Extended vacancy can affect coverage, but we can help you find the right solution for your situation.

Does home insurance cover water damage from leaking pipes?

Sudden and accidental water damage from burst or leaking pipes is usually covered. However, damage from gradual leaks or lack of maintenance typically isn't. Regular home maintenance helps prevent issues and keeps your coverage intact.

Can I cancel my policy anytime?

Yes, you can cancel anytime. Depending on when you cancel, you may receive a prorated refund for unused premium. Keep in mind that having a lapse in coverage can affect future rates, so we recommend securing new coverage before canceling.

How often should I review my coverage?

We recommend reviewing your policy annually or whenever you make major changes to your home, like renovations or buying expensive items. This ensures your coverage stays aligned with your current needs.

What happens if my contractor damages my home during work?

Your home insurance may cover contractor damage, but it's best if the contractor's liability insurance handles it first. Always verify contractors have proper insurance before starting work to avoid complications.

Do I need extra coverage if I have a swimming pool?

Swimming pools increase liability risk. While your standard policy provides some liability coverage, we often recommend increasing your liability limits and ensuring your pool meets safety requirements to maintain full coverage.