What’s Not Covered by Standard Home Insurance

Understanding what your home insurance doesn’t cover is essential for securing your property. At Dan Smith Insurance Agency, Inc., we know that homeowners face unique risks, from wildfires to earthquakes, and it’s important to be aware of common exclusions in standard home insurance policies. Let’s take a closer look at what may not be covered and where additional security might be needed.

Common Exclusions in Standard Home Insurance

While standard home insurance offers valuable coverage for many types of damage, there are several situations and losses that are typically excluded, including:

• Earthquake damage. Most standard policies do not cover damage caused by earthquakes. In some states, where seismic activity is a real concern, separate earthquake insurance is often recommended.
• Flooding. Damage from flooding, whether due to heavy rain or overflowing rivers, is generally not included. Homeowners may need to purchase a separate flood insurance policy for this type of coverage.
• Maintenance issues. Wear and tear, pest infestations and gradual deterioration are considered maintenance issues and are not covered by standard policies.
• High-value items. Jewelry, art and other possessions may have limited coverage. Additional endorsements or a separate policy may be needed to fully cover these items.
• Certain liability claims. Injuries or damages resulting from specific activities, such as running a business from home or certain dog breeds, may be excluded from liability coverage.

Why Additional Coverage Matters

Homeowners should carefully review their policies for potential gaps. For example, wildfire damage is usually covered, but related losses, such as landscaping or smoke damage, may have limitations. Understanding these details can help you avoid surprises if you need to file a claim.

How We Help Homeowners

Our team at Dan Smith Insurance Agency, Inc. is committed to helping you identify any policy gaps and explore additional coverage options tailored to your needs. We work with you to make sure you have the right security for your property and belongings.

If you have questions about your home insurance or want to review your coverage, contact us today.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.