- Look for exclusions to coverage. For example, most insurance
policies do not cover flood or earthquake damage as a standard item.
These coverages must be bought separately.
- Look for dollar
limitations on claims. Even if you are covered for a risk, there may a
limit on how much the insurer will pay. For example, many policies limit
the amount paid for stolen jewelry unless items are insured separately.
- Understand
replacement cost. If your home is destroyed you’ll receive money to
replace it only to the maximum of your coverage, so be sure your
insurance is sufficient. This means that if your home is insured for
$150,000 and it costs $180,000 to replace it, you’ll only receive
$150,000.
- Understand actual cash value. If you choose not to
replace your home when it’s destroyed, you’ll receive replacement cost,
less depreciation. This is called actual cash value.
- Understand
liability. Generally your homeowners insurance covers you for accidents
that happen to other people on your property, including medical care,
court costs, and awards by the court. However, there is usually an upper
limit to the amount of coverage provided. Be sure that it’s sufficient
if you have significant assets.
For a home insurance quote, contact
EJInsurance.com.