If you buy a house, home insurance will help protect your investment. Coverage is so important, in fact, that mortgage lenders won't extend funds until they see proof of insurance. However, while the average policy reimburses homeowners for a variety of damages, there are a number of events that aren't actually covered. 

What Does Home Insurance Usually Cover?

Every policy is different, so make sure to review the terms of your agreement closely as this information may not apply. Generally speaking, standard home insurance will cover the cost to repair or rebuild your house after a disastrous event. This can include damage from fire, wind or hail, snow or ice, flooding caused by internal sources, vandalism, gas explosions, or motor-vehicle collisions. Most policies also cover the cost to replace all the property’s contents—like furniture and clothing, for example—if they’re destroyed in a covered event, along with detached structures like garages, workshops, or sheds. 

If you have to repair or rebuild your house, the policy should cover temporary living expenses, as well, if you cannot reside in the home while it’s being remodeled. Additionally, most homeowners insurance policies provide liability coverage, which covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages if someone gets hurt on the premises. 

What Doesn’t Home Insurance Cover?

One of the biggest misconceptions about homeowners insurance is that it covers flooding. While a standard policy might cover water damage caused by internal plumbing issues, like burst pipes, it won't cover flooding caused by external sources like severe weather. If you live in a flood zone—or you just want added protection—you can purchase separate flood insurance. The same applies to earthquake insurance. 

Standard home insurance does not cover damage caused by mudslides, landslide, sinkholes, or damages that occur in the event of warfare or nuclear disasters. It’s also important to note that policies don’t cover damage that can be attributed to neglect. If your roof is in disrepair, for example, the insurer may not cover its replacement, even if it was destroyed in a covered event. 

For help finding a comprehensive home insurance policy, turn to Somers Agency LLC. For more than a century, this independent agency has been helping clients throughout Lorain County, OH, protect what matters most. Their knowledgeable agents are proud to offer a broad range of products, including car, boat, and life insurance. You can turn to them for virtually all your coverage needs. To request a quote for homeowners insurance, reach out online or call (440) 324-3447.