Homeowners insurance, also known as home insurance or property insurance, is a type of insurance policy that provides financial protection to homeowners against various risks and damages that may occur to their property or belongings. It is typically a package policy that combines multiple types of coverage, offering protection for the structure of the home, personal belongings, liability, and additional living expenses.
Dwelling coverage covers the physical structure of the home itself, including the walls, roof, foundation, and other attached structures, such as garages and fences. It provides financial protection against damage caused by fire, windstorms, hail, vandalism, and more.
Personal property coverage covers the homeowner's personal belongings, such as furniture, electronics, clothing, and other items inside the home or on the property. It typically protects against theft and damage caused by events like fire or water damage.
Liability coverage protects the homeowner against legal liabilities and financial losses if someone is injured on their property or if the homeowner unintentionally damages someone else's property. It may also cover legal defense costs if the homeowner is sued.
If the insured home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered peril, additional living expenses (ALE) coverage provides reimbursement for temporary living expenses, such as hotel stays or rent for a temporary residence, until the home is repaired.
Other structures coverage covers other structures on the property that are not attached to the main dwelling, such as a detached garage, shed, or fence.
Homeowners insurance policies typically have certain limits and deductibles, which are the amounts the homeowner must pay out of pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in. Additionally, not all perils may be covered, and specific exclusions might apply, so homeowners should carefully review their policy to understand what is and is not included.