Home Insurance FAQs
What does basic homeowners insurance cover?
Typically, home insurance combines several types of coverage into one policy. According to the Texas Department of Insurance, these 6 coverages are usually included:
- Dwelling coverage pays if your house is damaged or destroyed by something your policy covers.
- Personal property coverage pays if your furniture, clothing, and other things you own are stolen, damaged, or destroyed.
- Other structures coverage pays to repair structures on your property that aren’t attached to your house. This includes detached garages, storage sheds, and fences.
- Additional living expenses coverage pays if you have to move while your house is being repaired to fix damages your policy covers. Additional living expenses include rent, food, and other costs you wouldn’t have if you were still in your home.
- Personal liability coverage pays medical bills, lost wages, and other costs for people that you’re legally responsible for injuring. It also pays if you’re responsible for damaging someone else’s property. It also pays your court costs if you’re sued because of an accident.
- Medical payments coverage pays the medical bills of people hurt on your property. It also pays for some injuries that happen away from your home – if your dog bites someone at the park, for instance.
Why is it important to have an insurance agent?
Having an insurance agent can help you find the best policy for your needs by offering advice, different options, and customized coverage.
Does home insurance cover roof leaks?
Your insurance will typically cover roof leaks if caused by an accidental event (storm or fallen tree). However, it typically won’t cover leaks from wear, tear, and neglect.
How does home insurance work?
Home insurance protects your home from damage or loss caused by accident
such as fires, storms, or burglaries.
Does home insurance cover plumbing?
Homeowner insurance typically covers sudden and accidental plumbing issues. However, it does not cover gradual leaks or problems from poor maintenance.
Do you need home insurance?
In Texas, it is not a requirement to have home insurance; however it is highly recommended.
What is the cost of home insurance in Texas?
The average cost of home insurance is $4,400 a year.
Do I need homeowners insurance if my house is paid for?
There is no legal requirement. However, it is still highly recommended to maintain a policy as your home is likely your largest asset, and insurance can protect you from significant financial losses in case of damage or liability issues.
What additional things are included in homeowners insurance?
Some items that you may not know are covered by homeowners insurance include jewelry, clothing, electronics, kitchenware, and appliances.
How do home insurance claims work?
First, you must file a claim, then you review the policy, and an adjuster will evaluate the damage. If your claim is approved, then you will receive payment.
Does home Insurance cover weather-related damage?
- Weather-related damage from wind, hail, lightning, and wildfires is usually covered by home insurance.
- Hurricane damage can also be covered by home insurance because it is damage from strong winds. However, if your house floods, it is not covered by home insurance. If your area is susceptible to flooding, it is best to get flood insurance.
Does homeowners insurance cover fallen trees?
Many policies will provide coverage for trees that have fallen due to weather and have damaged your house or blocked your driveway.
