Homeowners Insurance Essentials Checklist

• Dwelling coverage amount matches cost to rebuild your home
• Other structures (shed, fence, detached garage) are covered
• Personal property coverage is enough to replace your belongings
• Loss of use coverage can fund temporary housing if needed
• Liability coverage is at least $300k (preferably $500k–$1M)

✅ 2. Understand What’s NOT Covered

• Flooding (separate policy needed)
• Earthquake (separate add-on)
• Sewer/drain backup unless added
• Normal wear and tear
• Pests (termites, rodents)

✅ 3. Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value

• Home is insured at replacement cost, not depreciated value
• Personal belongings covered at replacement cost
• Roof is NOT depreciated (unless unavoidable in your area)

✅ 4. Deductibles

• Know your standard deductible ($1,000, $2,500, etc.)
• Check if wind/hail uses a percentage deductible
• Be aware of special deductibles (hurricane, named storm, etc.)

✅ 5. Home Inventory Prepared

• Video walkthrough of all rooms
• List of valuables with photos
• Receipts and appraisals stored digitally
• Inventory saved in the cloud

✅ 6. Location Factors

• Know whether you’re in a flood zone
• Fire department and hydrant distance reviewed
• Local weather risks understood (wind, wildfire, snow load)

✅ 7. Liability Protection

• Enough liability coverage for lawsuits
• Consider umbrella policy for +$1M or more protection
• Covers dog bites, accidents, property damage you cause

✅ 8. Optional Add‑Ons to Consider

• Water/sewer backup
• Service line (underground utilities)
• Equipment breakdown (HVAC, appliances)
• Extended dwelling coverage (construction cost spikes)
• Ordinance or law (code upgrades during rebuild)

✅ 9. Claims Awareness

• Understand how to file a claim
• Know which repairs require approved contractors
• Avoid small claims that raise premiums
• Know how many claims your insurer allows before non-renewal

✅ 10. Review Policy Regularly

• Re-shop policy every 1–2 years
• Compare coverage, not just price
• Update after renovations or big purchases
• Ask about new discounts (smart home, bundling, claims-free)