What Is Homeowners Insurance?
Homeowners insurance (HO-3 policy) is a package policy that protects your home's structure, your personal belongings, and your personal liability. Most mortgage lenders require it, but even if yours does not, going without leaves your biggest investment unprotected.
What Is Covered?
- Dwelling Coverage - Pays to repair or rebuild your home if damaged by fire, wind, hail, lightning, vandalism, or other covered events.
- Other Structures - Covers detached garages, fences, sheds, and other structures on your property.
- Personal Property - Replaces furniture, electronics, clothing, and belongings if stolen or damaged.
- Loss of Use - Pays for hotel stays and additional living expenses while your home is being repaired after a covered loss.
- Personal Liability - Protects you if someone is injured on your property or you accidentally damage someone else's property.
- Medical Payments - Covers minor medical bills for guests injured at your home, regardless of fault.
How We Find Your Best Rate
As an independent agency, we are not limited to one company's rates. We gather quotes from multiple carriers and compare them side by side — coverage, limits, deductibles, and exclusions — so you can make an informed choice. We also look for discounts like multi-policy bundling, claims-free history, new construction, and home security systems.
Common Exclusions to Know
Standard homeowners policies do not cover flood damage or earthquake damage. If you live in a flood-prone area or earthquake-prone region, we can help you add the appropriate separate coverage. We will review your location and identify any coverage gaps before you finalize your policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much dwelling coverage do I need?
Your dwelling coverage should be based on the cost to rebuild your home, not its market value. These are often different numbers. We can help you calculate a replacement cost estimate based on your home's size, age, and construction.
Does home insurance cover my home business?
Standard home policies provide very limited coverage for business equipment and no liability coverage for business activities. If you run a business from home, ask us about adding a home business endorsement or separate commercial policy.