Home insurance, as I described in my previous blog, is an incredibly important part of our lives. When life’s most difficult tragedies strike, it can assist in alleviating the pain and worry that we would normally go through without it. But not all home insurance policies are created equal. There are several different factors in purchasing a policy, but I figured I would run through some of the most popular accidents covered under a home insurance policy, as well as some things that it doesn’t.
Fire
One of the most devastating natural occurrences on the planet is fire. Although it has dramatically helped human beings throughout history, it is also incredibly dangerous, as the recent California wildfires have proven. Luckily, most home insurance policies will cover your home from any damages caused by fire, as long as there was no foul play. Most policies also cover smoke damage as well.
Lightning
In terms of natural disasters to worry about, lightning strikes are probably very low on your list, and rightfully so. Lightning strikes to homes are relatively rare. However, lightning strikes to homes have happened before, and they can cause some major damage. Most policies cover lightning strikes; but more importantly, they also cover indirect damage caused by lightning strikes, such as power surges.
Personal Property
Natural disasters aren’t the only threats to our homes. Unfortunately, unwanted invaders are far too common in the world. If your house is broken into and your property is stolen, then you very well could be covered under your policy. The insurance policy will usually cover any damage sustained by the house (broken windows, doors, etc.) as well as your personal property (televisions, jewelry, etc.). However, there is a limit to what most insurers will pay for in terms of personal property.
Flooding
Almost no home insurance policy covers flooding. Most policyowners are blindsided by this and are therefore left in an unfortunate position after a major flood damages their home. Comb over your policy just to be sure, but in most cases, you will have to purchase a separate flood insurance policy.
Mold
If your house is moldy, you may be out of luck on insurance. Most policies do not cover mold; if they do, it’s via an extension on the current policy. Your best bet is to stop mold from forming at all.
Earthquakes
Here is another natural disaster that isn’t covered by standard home insurance. If you live in an area that is prone to earthquakes, you will most certainly want to consider purchasing a separate policy for earthquake insurance.
This is simply a small list of things that are usually covered/not covered by home insurance policies. Again, you should absolutely comb over your individual policy to know exactly what you are and aren’t covered for. The last thing you want is to be left to pay huge fines in the event of a disaster. Check your home insurance policy now, and if you do not already own a policy, go out and get one.