1. How much coverage did you quote on my home, and does that include detached structures?
Your dwelling coverage should reflect what it would actually cost to rebuild today, not your home's market value. Detached structures like a garage, workshop, or shed are typically covered at 10% of your dwelling limit. With construction costs rising, confirm that limit is actually enough.
2. How much coverage is provided for my personal property?
Personal property coverage pays to replace your furniture, appliances, clothing, and belongings. Ask what the limit is and whether high-value items like jewelry or art require a separate endorsement, as standard policies typically cap those at $1,500.
3. Are my contents insured for replacement cost or actual cash value?
Replacement cost value (RCV) pays to replace damaged items at today's prices. Actual cash value (ACV) pays the depreciated value, which after your deductible can result in little or no payout on older items. Make sure you know which one your policy uses.
4. Is my home insured for replacement cost or actual cash value?
The same distinction applies to your dwelling. An ACV policy factors in depreciation when calculating your payout after a loss. Ask for replacement cost coverage on the structure of your home if at all possible.
5. Do I have water and sewer backup coverage?
Standard policies do not cover damage from a backed-up sewer or drain. This must be added as an endorsement. Without it, cleanup and repair costs come entirely out of pocket.
6. What is my deductible, and do I have a separate wind deductible?
Ask for both figures in dollar amounts. A 5% wind deductible on a $300,000 home means $15,000 out of pocket before insurance pays anything on a wind claim. Know your actual financial exposure before a storm, not after. If your home has a FORTIFIED designation, make sure your agent knows. In states with enacted legislation, it qualifies you for mandated wind premium discounts of 20% to 55%.
7. Do I have a separate wind or hail policy?
In coastal states, wind coverage is often excluded from the base homeowners policy and must be purchased separately. Make sure both policies are in place before hurricane season.
8. Do I have coverage for additional living expenses?
If your home is damaged and you cannot live in it during repairs, additional living expenses (ALE) coverage pays for hotel stays, meals, and other costs. Ask what the limit is and how long it applies.
9. How much Ordinance or Law coverage do I have?
If your home is substantially damaged, local building codes may require upgrades before you can rebuild. Standard policies do not cover that cost. This is especially important for older homes.
10. Do I have a flood policy, and what is my flood zone?
Homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage in most cases. Ask what flood zone your property is in and whether coverage is required or recommended. One inch of water can cause up to $25,000 in damage. Learn more about flood insurance.
When shopping for homeowners insurance, have this information ready:
- Year the home was built
- Square footage
- Roof shape and age
- Date of any upgrades, if known (HVAC, roof, wiring, plumbing)
- Construction type (wood frame, brick veneer, concrete block, etc.)
- FORTIFIED designation level and certificate number, if applicable
Have questions about coverage, discounts, or resilient construction in your state? Contact us.