Dwelling Coverage

What it covers: The structure of your home when it is damaged by a covered cause of loss, subject to policy terms and limits.

Why you may need it: Rebuilding or repairing a home after a major covered loss can be extremely expensive, and mortgage lenders generally require property insurance.

Other Structures Coverage

What it covers: Covered detached structures on your property, such as a detached garage, fence, shed, or gazebo.

Why you may need it: These structures can also be damaged by storms, fire, and other covered losses even though they are not part of the main house.

Personal Property Coverage

What it covers: Your covered belongings—such as furniture, clothing, appliances, and electronics—when damaged, destroyed, or stolen by a covered cause of loss.

Why you may need it: Replacing the contents of a home all at once can create a substantial financial burden.

Personal Liability Coverage

What it covers: Certain legal liability claims if you or a covered household member unintentionally injures someone or damages their property, subject to policy terms.

Why you may need it: A serious injury or liability claim can result in significant legal defense costs or damages.

Medical Payments to Others

What it covers: Certain smaller medical expenses if a guest is accidentally injured on your property, generally without requiring a determination of legal liability.

Why you may need it: It can help address minor guest injuries before they develop into larger disputes.

Loss of Use / Additional Living Expenses

What it covers: Certain additional costs of living elsewhere when a covered loss makes your home uninhabitable, subject to limits and policy terms.

Why you may need it: Hotel bills, temporary housing, and increased living costs can add up quickly while a home is repaired.

Water Backup Coverage

What it covers: Water backup coverage is typically an optional endorsement that may help pay for covered damage when water or sewage backs up through a drain or sewer, or when a sump pump overflows or fails, subject to the policy's terms, limits, deductible, and exclusions.

Why you may need it: A sewer or drain backup can damage flooring, walls, furniture, appliances, and other belongings, and cleanup can be expensive. Standard homeowners policies may exclude or limit this type of loss unless water backup coverage is specifically added.

Important distinction: Water backup coverage is not the same as flood insurance. It generally does not cover rising surface water or other flooding that requires a separate flood policy.

Optional Endorsements

What they cover: Endorsements can modify or add protection for needs not fully addressed by a standard policy, depending on the insurer—for example, certain valuables, equipment breakdown, water backup, or other exposures.

Why you may need them: Standard homeowners policies have limitations and exclusions, so additional protection may be appropriate for your property and belongings.