What It Covers: The Physical Structure of the Home

Dwelling coverage is the primary component of a homeowners policy. It pays to repair or rebuild the home's structure if damaged by a covered peril such as fire, windstorm, hail, lightning, or vandalism. This includes walls, roof, floors, built-in appliances, attached garage, and permanent fixtures like plumbing and electrical systems.

What It Protects: Detached Structures on Your Property

This coverage protects structures on your property that are not attached to your main dwelling. Standard policies typically provide coverage equal to 10% of your dwelling coverage amount.

What It Protects: Your Belongings Inside and Outside Your Home

Personal property coverage pays to repair or replace your belongings if they're stolen or damaged by a covered peril. Coverage typically extends to your belongings anywhere in the world.

What It Protects: Additional Living Expenses (ALE)

If your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered loss, loss of use coverage pays for the additional costs of living elsewhere while repairs are made, such as hotel bills and restaurant meals.

What It Protects: Your Assets if You're Sued

Personal liability coverage protects you financially if you're found legally responsible for injuring someone or damaging their property. This covers legal defense costs and court awards.

What It Protects: Minor Medical Expenses for Guests

Pays for minor medical expenses when someone is injured on your property, regardless of fault. Designed to handle small claims (like a slip and fall) without litigation.

Not Included in Standard Policies: Flood damage is excluded from standard homeowners policies. Separate flood insurance is available through the NFIP or private insurers.

Not Included in Standard Policies: Like flood damage, earthquake damage is excluded. Coverage is available as a separate policy or endorsement, often with a high deductible (10-20%).

Supplemental Liability: An umbrella policy provides additional liability coverage (e.g., $1 million+) that kicks in after your standard home or auto liability limits are exhausted.

Common add-ons include Scheduled Personal Property (for expensive jewelry/art), Water Backup Coverage (for sump pump failures), and Service Line Coverage.