A homeowners insurance quote includes
1. Coverage for the structure of the home
This part of a policy pays to repair or rebuild a home if it is damaged or destroyed by fire, hurricane, hail, lightning, or other disaster listed in the policy. It will not pay for damage caused by a flood, earthquake, or routine wear and tear. Most standard policies also cover structures that are not attached to a house such as a garage, tool shed, or gazebo.
2. Coverage for personal belongings
Furniture, clothes, sports equipment, and other personal items are covered if they are stolen or destroyed by fire, hurricane, or other insured disasters. Most companies provide coverage for 50 to 70 percent of the amount of insurance on the structure of a home. This part of the policy includes off-premises coverage. This means that belongings are covered anywhere in the world unless the policyholder has decided against off-premises coverage. Expensive items like jewelry, furs, and silverware are covered, but there are usually dollar limits if they are stolen. To insure these items to their full value, individuals can purchase a special personal property endorsement or floater and insure the item for its appraised value.
Trees, plants, and shrubs are also covered under standard homeowners insurance—generally up to about $500 per item. Perils covered are theft, fire, lightning, explosion, vandalism, riot and even falling aircraft. They are not covered for damage by wind or disease.
3. Liability protection
Liability covers lawsuits for bodily injury or property damage that policyholders or family members cause to other people. It also pays for damage caused by pets. The liability portion of the policy pays for both the cost of defending the policyholder in court and any court awards—up to the limit of the policy. Coverage is not just in the home but extends to anywhere in the world. Liability limits generally start at about $100,000. An umbrella or excess liability policy, which provides broader coverage, including claims for libel and slander, as well as higher liability limits, can be added to the policy.
4. Additional living expenses
This pays the additional costs of living away from home if a house is inhabitable due to damage from a fire, storm, or other insured disasters. It covers hotel bills, restaurant meals, and other living expenses incurred while the home is being rebuilt. Coverage for additional living expenses differs from company to company.