Questions to Ask Your Agent about Homeowner Insurance

It pays to ask questions about your insurance.

When you’re shopping for homeowner insurance, remember that policies can vary widely. Some coverages are included, while others require an additional premium. Here are some questions you might want to ask your independent insurance agent:

Is my home covered for full replacement cost?

This is one of the key distinctions between homeowner policies, and you’ll want to know the answer. If your home is covered only for its current market value – or worse, your loan amount – you are likely underinsured.

Make sure the insured value takes into consideration all of your home’s features including custom features such as countertops, woodworking, and any renovations or additions you've made to the home. The cost to rebuild is likely to be significantly more than the current market value or your loan amount.

How much is the deductible on my policy?

The deductible is the amount of a loss that you pay. If you can afford a high deductible with savings or other resources, you can usually reduce your premiums. Your agent can help you find the right balance.

Does my policy include earthquake coverage?

Not all policies include earthquake coverage. If yours doesn’t, you may be able to purchase additional coverage. Your agent can advise you on the need for earthquake coverage in your area. Don't assume you don’t need it.

How much coverage do I have on the contents of my home?

If you were to pick up your home and shake it, everything that falls out is considered your contents. Most policies automatically provide coverage for your contents at anywhere from 50-75% of the insured value of your home. As an example, a home insured for $300,000 could automatically include $150,000 in contents coverage. You may be able to purchase additional coverage, as well.

Does my policy insure against water damage?

Water damage coverage varies from one company to another, including the definition of what water damage is. Talk to your agent to determine what coverage you have or if you are able to purchase more. Installing a water-shut off device can further protect your home from a water loss and in some cases provide you an additional discount on your policy.

Is there coverage for my valuable articles under contents?

While a policy may include some coverage for these items, they may subject to sublimits or deductibles or not be covered fully. Ask your agent to clarify this and inquire if a separate personal articles policy is recommended at additional premium.

Does my policy provide any liability coverage for slander, libel, defamation of character, invasion of privacy or identity theft?

Some homeowner policies automatically cover these items while others require an extra premium. Know before you buy. Ask your agent to help you evaluate your needs and your situation so that you have no surprises should you have a claim.

The best place to start is asking your agent about your policy details to clarify any questions you have about your coverage.

This loss control information is advisory only. The author assumes no responsibility for management or control of loss control activities. Not all exposures are identified in this article. Contact your local, independent insurance agent for coverage advice and policy service.