After years of apartment living, you’ve made the decision to look for your dream house. After putting in long hours and money to close the deal, it’s crucial to protect your investment and keep yourself and your family safe. Homeowners insurance is designed to pay for those unexpected situations so you won’t have to pick up the tab. Here’s a helpful guide on what items are covered by most standard policies.

What Does Homeowners Insurance Typically Cover? 

1. Home’s Structure

Should your house sustain damage from natural disasters, homeowners insurance will pay for the repair or replacement costs. Known as perils in the insurance business, these disasters include hail, hurricanes, tornadoes, fire, and lightning. The coverage extends to all items on your property including sheds, garages, pools, and other freestanding structures. Keep in mind that separate policies are needed for flood and earthquake disasters.

2. Liability Protection

If someone is injured while in your home or on your property, most homeowners insurance plans pick up the costs for their medical expenses. Depending on the policy, liability protection covers any lawsuits filed against you as a result of these injuries. Homeowners insurance policies also pay for property damage caused by you, your children, or even your pets. For instance, if your child accidentally breaks a neighbor’s window with a baseball, your policy should cover some of the damages. 

3. Personal Possessions

Think about the number of personal items you have in your home. From flat screen TVs and furniture to appliances and laptops, the list can be a long one. If these personal possessions are damaged, homeowners insurance pays for the repair or replacement costs up to a certain dollar amount. Most policies even extend coverage to those items if they’re off-site, such as in a car or away with you on vacation. For high-end items such as expensive jewelry, artwork, and antiques, you may need additional insurance that covers them up to their appraised values.

4. Temporary Living Expenses

In some circumstances, property damage can make your home uninhabitable. Many homeowners insurance plans will pay for hotel stays, meals, and other expenses related to your temporary relocation while repairs take place. There is typically a time limit or a certain dollar amount on how much the insurance provider will cover.

Homeowners insurance is designed to protect you from the unexpected, so don’t put yourself or your property at financial risk by foregoing coverage. Dozier Insurance Agency in Dawson, GA, specializes in helping clients secure affordable, reliable, and comprehensive property protection. What makes the locally owned firm unique is its commitment to offering low monthly and down payments to fit a range of budgets. If you’re in the market for a new policy or are unhappy with your existing policy, call (229) 995-2040 for a free, no-obligation insurance quote. Visit the website for a complete listing of coverage options, including auto and motorcycle insurance.