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A Standard Homeowners Policy Covers Six Things, and Most People Only Know About Two
Everyone knows home insurance covers your house and your stuff. But a standard policy also covers other structures like garages and fences, personal liability if someone is injured on your property, medical payments for guests regardless of fault, and loss-of-use expenses like hotels and meals if your home becomes uninhabitable during repairs. Understanding all six coverage areas is the difference between being insured and being properly insured.
Floods and Earthquakes Are Not Covered Unless You Add Them
This is the most common and most costly gap in homeowners insurance. A standard policy covers fire, wind, vandalism, and many other risks, but flood damage and earthquake damage require separate endorsements or standalone policies. If you live in an area with any exposure to either, ask your insurer about adding coverage before you need it.
Your Policy Should Change Every Time Your Home Does
A renovation, a major purchase, or even installing a security system can change what your policy should cover and what it should cost. If you finish a basement, remodel a kitchen, or buy expensive jewelry, your current coverage limits may no longer be enough. Notify your insurer after any significant change so you are not underinsured when you file a claim. On the other side, safety upgrades like smoke detectors and security systems can qualify you for premium discounts.
Now that you’re in the know, find out how much you could save on homeowners insurance or renters insurance through the GEICO Insurance Agency.
See how homeowners insurance could help protect what matters most.
Get a Quote Learn MorePlease note that the information above is meant to help you better understand insurance coverage in general. This content is for educational purposes only and does not serve as an actual insurance policy, nor does it change any terms or details in your own policy. Because insurance options can vary depending on your insurer, where you live, and what's available, we recommend that you review your policy documents and speak with a licensed insurance expert if you have questions about your coverage. Any examples of premiums, losses, deductibles, or repair costs are just for illustration and might not reflect your personal situation. Whether an accident or loss is covered will depend on the specific rules and details in your policy. Also, if you click on any links to other websites, we are not responsible for their content.