Homeowners insurance financially protects your home from certain perils. Having homeowners insurance safeguards your space and belongings. Before emergencies happen, it’s good to know what is and isn’t covered under your policy.

If you’ve ever wondered what policies do and don’t cover, you’re not alone. Here is a basic guide to some of the major things covered by  

Perils covered by homeowners insurance   

There are many perils covered under homeowners insurance. Knowing the standard coverages can help you when picking out a policy. These perils include both natural disasters and human-caused perils.

Theft 

Theft is covered under homeowners insurance, including both the items stolen, and any damage sustained during a break-in. This could include things like broken windows or doors.

Fire & smoke damage

If a fire breaks out in your home and damages your property, this is covered under homeowners insurance. This coverage includes fires caused by lightning strikes or electrical malfunctions.

Wind & hail 

Damages caused from high winds or hail storms are covered in traditional homeowners policies. Broken windows, damaged siding and doors are common claims for this type of damage.

Perils not covered by homeowners insurance

Even though homeowners insurance covers damages caused by many perils, there are important exceptions. 

Earthquakes & floods 

Damages caused by earthquakes and floods aren’t covered under standard homeowners insurance. Instead, you’ll need to purchase flood and earthquake insurance separately, or add it onto your standard policy.

Sewer backups

Sewer backups can cause damage and be expensive to clean up. Unfortunately, damage from sewer backups is not covered by standard homeowners insurance. You can typically purchase an addition, or rider, to your policy for sewer-related damages.

Knowing exactly what your policy covers can help you prepare for emergencies. Speaking with a local insurance provider can help you decide what policies are best for protecting yourself and your property.