A homeowner policy is not a single product. It is six coverage lines, each with its own limit, deductible, and rider. Here is what each one does.
A standard homeowner policy bundles coverage into one number, which makes it easy to sell but hard to understand. I quote each coverage line separately so the homeowner knows exactly what they are paying for and what each section protects.
Pays to repair or rebuild the structure of the home. This covers walls, roof, foundation and attached systems. I price this at replacement cost, not market value, and recheck it at each renewal.
Furniture, clothing, electronics, appliances and other household contents. Standard limits cover the average household, with scheduled riders available for high value items.
Covers a guest injury on the property and certain off property incidents. I default to a higher limit than most carriers suggest.
Pays for temporary housing and additional living expenses if the home is uninhabitable after a covered loss. The limit is set as a percentage of the dwelling coverage.
Covers minor medical bills for guests injured on the property, regardless of fault. Keeps small incidents out of the liability claim path.
Covers detached garages, fences, sheds, and outbuildings on the property. Standard limit is a percentage of dwelling; higher limits are available as a rider.
A homeowner policy I write follows a clear path. Every step is handled from my desk with no handoffs to outside teams.
I start with a short intake covering the property details. Roof age, construction type, square footage and prior claims. A quote comes back covering all six standard coverage lines, priced individually.
I explain each line before the policy binds. Deductibles, exclusions and optional riders are covered so nothing is discovered at claim time.
Once the homeowner approves the coverage, the policy binds with the selected carrier. I handle any inspection requirements from my desk.
Every renewal is reviewed against the current market before the bill goes out. If better coverage or pricing is available, I present it alongside the renewal.
Each of these questions came from a homeowner during the quoting process. I keep answers plain so the coverage is clear before the policy binds.
Actual cash value pays the depreciated value of what was damaged. Replacement cost pays what it would cost to rebuild or replace at today's prices. Replacement cost policies cost more, but the difference matters at claim time.
It depends on the source. Sudden and accidental water damage from a burst pipe is typically covered. Gradual leaks, seepage, and rising surface water are excluded. Flood coverage requires a separate policy.
Flood, earthquake, normal wear and tear, pest damage, and intentional damage are standard exclusions. Some carriers also exclude certain dog breeds or trampoline liability without a separate endorsement.
Yes. A higher deductible lowers the premium. For wind and hail, many carriers use a percentage deductible tied to the dwelling limit rather than a flat amount. The figure is always spelled out on the declaration page.
The policy does not transfer with the property. When a home sells, the existing policy is cancelled and the premium balance is returned. The buyer needs their own policy in place before closing.
A short intake is all it takes to start. I price all six coverage lines individually and return a one page summary.