Homeowners insurance provides financial protection for your home and personal belongings. This coverage, also known as home insurance, can provide monetary compensation for losses or damages to your home or personal property and render aid if you are liable for another party’s losses. Given the importance of such protection, an adequate homeowners insurance policy is an essential investment to protect your most valuable assets and provide peace of mind in the face of unforeseen events. 

When Should You Buy Homeowners Insurance? 

You should ensure you have homeowners insurance as soon as you become a homeowner. In most cases, a homeowners policy is required by mortgage lenders prior to closing on your home. Even when purchasing or already owning your home outright, this coverage is highly recommended to help ensure you have the means of recouping losses that might otherwise create devastating out-of-pocket costs. You should also regularly reassess your homeowners insurance, particularly after making additional investments, such as adding high-value possessions or undergoing home renovations. 

How Does Homeowners Insurance Work? 

Homeowners insurance provides you and your family with a comprehensive safety net capable of rendering financial assistance in response to many common risks and exposures. Although policy details may vary, this coverage generally can render aid for losses involving the following: 

• Primary dwelling—This coverage includes the physical elements of your residence, including its roof, foundations and attached appliances.

• Other structures—This coverage may include additional structures on your property, such as detached garages, sheds, gazebos and guest houses.

• Contents—This coverage can help pay for losses involving your possessions, such as furniture, electronics and clothing.

• Liability—If you or another insured are at fault for the losses of a third party, such as a neighbor or passerby, this coverage can provide financial assistance to help compensate them and help pay for associated legal costs.

• Temporary living expenses—If a covered event forces you to vacate your home temporarily, your insurance can help pay for resulting costs, such as alternative lodging and restaurant meals.

How Do Homeowners Insurance Claims Work? 

Claims processes vary depending on the type of claim and insurer. When filing a homeowners insurance claim, it can be helpful for you to understand what to expect, and your agent can provide more information. Generally, the claims process for property loss includes the following steps:  

1. Report your losses. You should notify your insurance company of any losses and damages as soon as possible. 

2. Submit documentation. Insurers may require evidence of your losses, including a detailed inventory of lost or damaged items, photographic and video evidence, and receipts or invoices from repair or replacement services. 

3. Work with your adjuster. Your insurer may dispatch a claims adjuster to assess damages and determine the amount that will be paid out for your claim. 

4. Receive payment. If your claim is approved, your payout may include a series of payments or a lump sum. 

Liability claims may involve different steps. Reach out to your agent for more information. 

How Many Homeowners Insurance Claims Can You File? 

In many cases, there may be no limit to the number of claims you can file against your homeowners insurance; however, submitting several claims within a relatively short time period may affect your premiums. Furthermore, insurance companies may choose not to renew your coverage if you have a pattern of filing many claims. 

Get the Right Coverage 

With over 25 years of serving the Erie, Penn. area, as well as northeast Ohio and southwest New York, the dedicated staff at the Mark Bruns Agency have the knowledge and experience to help homeowners assess and address their insurance needs. Contact us today to get started. 

Products underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and affiliates. Columbus, Ohio. Nationwide, the Nationwide N and Eagle, and other marks displayed on this page are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, unless otherwise disclosed. © 2018 Nationwide.

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