Field guide · 01

Homeowners insurance

Compare the promise to rebuild, replace belongings, cover liability, and house you after a covered loss, not just the annual premium.

Ask before you choose

Questions for the agent or insurer

01
How was the dwelling limit calculated, and when is it recalculated?
02
Is the home and personal property settled at replacement cost or actual cash value?
03
Which deductibles are flat dollars and which are percentages?
04
What happens if local building codes increase reconstruction cost?
05
Which water losses are covered, excluded, or available by endorsement?

Apples to apples

Limit, valuation method, inflation guard, and extended replacement terms.

Limit, sublimits for valuables, and replacement cost versus depreciation.

Personal liability, medical payments, exclusions, and umbrella compatibility.

All-peril, wind or hail, named storm, and percentage deductibles.

Time limit, dollar limit, and what qualifies after a covered loss.

Water backup, service line, ordinance or law, equipment breakdown, and others offered.

Primary sources