New Homeowner Insurance Basics

or his property is covered. To cover the exclusions, homeowners can often pay to add endorsements to their policy, although some exclusions, such as flood damage and earthquake damage, may require the purchase of a separate policy.

Coverage Amounts – When choosing coverage amounts, people should remember they are protecting the entire home (dwelling), not simply the amount remaining on the mortgage or their equity in the building.

2. Personal Property – Family possessions and personal property also are covered by homeowners insurance. In most cases, a policyholder will be reimbursed for damage or theft of personal property, whether the loss occurs on the protected premises or elsewhere. Recalling each item in every room can be difficult, however, so policyholders are encouraged to make an inventory of their belongings – recording the serial numbers, as well as the dates and costs of purchases for possessions such as jewelry, artwork, furniture and appliances. Personal inventories should always be stored in a fireproof safe or away from the premises, such as on videotape or a computer that is not in the house.

Coverage Amounts – Typically, the insurer sets the total value of possessions at half of what the home is insured for. But there are limits for certain items and the amount may not be sufficient to cover the replacement of property, so homeowners may want to purchase additional coverage for their possessions. Review of a homeowner’s