When shopping for home insurance, there’s much more to consider than how much your coverage will cost.
When you apply for homeowners insurance, you’ll provide a great deal of information. The insurance company will ask you about your current occupation and employment history, marital status, previous addresses, date of birth and Social Security number. The agency will check your criminal, credit, and insurance history to see if you are a "good risk." The insurance agency will also look at your "loss history" to see what kinds of home insurance claims you've made in the past.
Then, you’ll have to decide what type of homeowners policy you want, the deductible, and how you’ll pay for the coverage. Your agent or insurance company will determine how much it would cost to replace your home and many of the items inside. For more expensive property, such as jewellery and computer equipment, you might need special coverage in addition to the basic policy.
Most standard policies will provide coverage for damage to your home (and many of the items in your home) caused by:
- Theft
- Fire and lightning
- Smoke
- Frozen pipes
- Ice and snow
Homeowners insurance also provides coverage for liability claims, medical payments to third parties, and legal costs if a lawsuit is brought against you. The most common amount of liability coverage included in a homeowners policy is $100,000, but you may need much more, depending on your circumstances.
What's not covered?
Read your insurance policy to find out exactly what is and is not covered. Do this before you suffer a loss, so you won't be surprised. Most insurers exclude damages caused by an act of war, nuclear accident, flood, earthquake, and terrorism, although you may be able to purchase special policies or endorsements that will cover these events.
Discounts
Don't forget to tell your insurer if you have a home security system (e.g., fire, burglar, emergency). Most insurers offer discounts for such safety features. You may also qualify for a lower insurance premium if you live near a fire department or hydrant, own a newer home, own a home built out of fire-resistant materials, or insure your auto with the same company.
Shop around
Get quotes from several insurance companies when shopping for homeowners insurance. But remember, the lowest price does not always equal the best deal. Compare the coverage each policy offers, and check with your state's department of insurance to make sure that each company you're evaluating has a good reputation in the industry.
Lending institutions usually require mortgage customers to purchase homeowners insurance. Don’t rely on the coverage levels mandated by your bank or mortgage company. Those levels are designed to protect the house itself, but not necessarily your possessions. That’s why it’s important to check with your agent or insurance company, to make sure you have adequate coverage.
