Homeowners Insurance 101: What’s Covered, How to Choose, and Why Liability Matters

Your home is more than just a roof over your head—it’s where your life happens. Protecting it with the right homeowners insurance gives you peace of mind and financial security when the unexpected occurs. In this guide, we’ll break down what is covered under home insurance, tips for choosing the right homeowners policy, and why liability coverage in home insurance is one of the most important protections you can have.
What Is Covered Under Home Insurance?
A standard homeowners insurance policy protects both your property and your financial well-being. While every policy can differ, here are the core coverages most people can expect:
•Dwelling Coverage – Pays to repair or rebuild your home if it’s damaged by fire, hail, wind, or other covered perils.
•Other Structures – Includes coverage for detached garages, sheds, fences, or other structures not directly attached to your house.
•Personal Property – Protects belongings like furniture, clothing, and electronics if they are stolen or destroyed.
•Additional Living Expenses (ALE) – Covers hotel stays, meals, and other costs if your home is temporarily unlivable due to a covered loss.
•Liability Protection – Provides coverage if someone is injured on your property or if you’re responsible for damaging someone else’s property.
Keep in mind: standard home insurance typically doesn’t cover flooding or earthquakes. For those, you’ll need separate or add-on policies.
