Most people know that their Homeowners Insurance covers them in the case of theft or vandalism. But, did you know that you’re also covered for jewelry, art and other similar valuables? That’s right, it’s not just furniture that’s covered by your Homeowners policy. Almost everything inside your home is covered. You’re also protected in the case of property damage and damage caused by fire, smoke, hail or a windstorm. These types of claims are made most often under Homeowners Insurance.
However, there is a whole host of other situations in which policyholders are covered but may not know it. Here’s our list of the top 18 things you probably don’t know are covered by Homeowners Insurance. Aren’t you glad you know now, though?
1. Spoiled Food
Not only will Homeowners Insurance cover the cost of a broken-down fridge, but it may also cover the cost of the food inside, too. If you lose power for an extended period of time and your fridge was packed with expensive food items that all went to waste, you may be covered up to $500.
2. Counterfeit Money
That’s right. You’re covered for up to $500 of your loss if you unknowingly accept counterfeit U.S. or Canadian money.
3. Your Phone
Some Homeowners Insurance policies may cover cell phones. You may also have Personal Possessions coverage that applies outside your home. This coverage may even apply for other equipment, like your iPad and camera, too. However, keep in mind that coverage is usually less when you are away from home. Speak with an Insurance Specialist for more information on this type of coverage.
4. New Locks
Let’s face it. You lose or misplace your keys way too often. If there ever comes a time that you just can’t find them, you may be covered for the cost of installing new locks.
5. Explosions
An explosion that cause damage to your home is typically covered by Homeowners Insurance. Ask your agent about any instances in which you are not covered by an explosion.
6. Family Grave Site
Whether the family’s grave is at the home or at a cemetery, it is covered in the case of vandalism for up to $5,000.
7. College Burglary
Do have a kid away at college? There’s a risk that their off-campus home or apartment may get burgled. If this happens, they may have some coverage under your Homeowners Insurance policy for their stuff, including expensive textbooks. Ask an Insurance Specialist for more details about what’s covered before you send them off to school. If they’re taking a car to campus with them, you should also make sure you understand how your Car Insurance coverage works, too.
8. Naughty Kids
What happens if your child throws a ball and accidentally breaks your upstairs window? You’re covered, but only as long as they are younger than 13 years of age.
9. Red Wine Spills
You have the option to add Accidental Damage coverage to your Homeowners policy. This may cover a professional cleaning after spilling red wine on your white carpet.
10. Lightning Strikes
Yes, this occurrence can happen to you and cause major damage, including a fire. Luckily, you’re covered for the unexpected.
11. The Whole Set
Let’s say you have a fancy china set. What happens if a few plates are stolen in a home robbery? Amongst many other personal belongings that were stolen, you will be reimbursed for the entire set so you can buy a new one for when you entertain. The same goes for pairs of items, like candlesticks. You will be reimbursed for the pair if only one gets stolen. Although, we don’t know why someone would only want to steal one candlestick.
12. Volcano Eruptions
If you live near a volcano that erupts and causes damage to your home, then you’re covered. However, living in this type of area will probably cause you to have higher Homeowners Insurance rates. To find out more and get a free quote, call an Insurance Specialist at (855) 247-5298.
13. Fallen Trees
What happens if your neighbor’s tree falls onto your property and damages your car parked in the driveway? Your Homeowners Insurance may cover it if theirs doesn’t. If not, then your Car Insurance may cover it if you have Comprehensive coverage. You never know what might happen to your car or your home, so make sure you understand the coverage and how it works on each policy you carry.
14. Accidents
What if someone trips over the crack in the concrete on your sidewalk? Unfortunately, you are liable. However, your Homeowners Insurance covers medical expenses and legal fees if they sue. The Liability Insurance on your policy may also pay for lost wages due to these incidents and even funeral expenses in case of a fatal accident.
15. Bad Dog
The same goes for a dog bite. If it was your pet that caused harm, your insurance protects you. However, some breeds of dog may make you ineligible for coverage so make sure to speak with an Insurance Specialist about your pet.
16. Your Bike
There’s also Off-Premises coverage that you can choose to add to your Homeowners Insurance policy. This protects your personal property for up to 3,000 miles from your home. It’s a good idea if you own a bike, which will be replaced if it’s stolen.
17. Lost Luggage
Everyone’s worst travel nightmare, right? Well, just as your bike is personal property that leaves your home with you, so is your luggage filled with clothes and other personal items. Again, this falls under Off-Premises coverage.
18. Aircrafts
By this we mean blimps, helicopters and space shuttles. If one crashes onto your roof, you’re covered for housing and food while you find a new home. Yep, your home is covered if one falls from the sky. In fact, you can rebuild your home from the foundation up if this ever happens to you. It’s unlikely, but you never know, it can happen!
Your Homeowners Insurance Policy
Some of the incidents mentioned above may not be covered by your policy if you do not have additional coverages. To better understand your coverage, speak with an Insurance Specialist. They can explain how your insurance works if you ever need to make a claim. They can also help you figure out if you need additional coverage based on your home and belongings.
The information in this article is obtained from various sources. This content is offered for educational purposes only. It should not replace manuals or instructions provided by the manufacturer or the advice of a qualified professional. The definitions, terms and coverage in a given policy may be different than those suggested here. Such policy will be governed by the language contained therein.
