Homeowners insurance is one of the most important policies you can have to cover your home and belongings. Unfortunately, many people find out when they go to file a claim that some things they thought were covered actually aren't. Here are three types of damage that usually aren't covered by homeowners insurance.
Damage From Movement of the Earth
No matter where you are in the U.S., your home could be damaged by a natural disaster. However, if you live in a part of the country where earthquakes or sinkholes are common, you may want to consider getting extra coverage for these disasters. While a standard homeowners insurance policy typically covers such things as fire damage, wind damage, and damage from falling limbs and other objects, damage from movement of the earth is usually excluded.
In most states, you can add earthquake insurance as an addendum to the standard homeowners insurance policy. In California, homeowners insurance providers are required by law to offer earthquake insurance every other year. Most providers of earthquake insurance in California are members of the California Earthquake Authority.
Damage From Negligent Maintenance
Homeowners insurance is intended to protect your home from uncontrollable events. There are several types of damage that your homeowners insurance will not cover because they are within the ability of the homeowner to prevent if they are maintaining their home properly.
One of the most common problems that fall under the category of negligent maintenance is pest damage. Rodents and insects are pests that can pose a risk to every home, so it is the owner's responsibility to take steps to prevent them or call an exterminator in the event of an infestation. Mold and rot are also not covered in most cases if they occur as a result of excess moisture from leaky pipes or other unaddressed problems.
Water Damage From Sewer Backup
Many homeowners are not aware that they own and are responsible for maintaining the main sewer line that runs beneath their home. Unfortunately, this means that standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover sewer backups. If you live in an area with heavy rainfall, you should take steps to prevent sewer backups so you can avoid expensive water damage repairs in the future. Many homeowners insurance providers also provide sewer backup coverage for a nominal rate.
Knowing what isn't covered by homeowners insurance can help you avoid surprise expenses when you need to file a claim. Contact a local provider, such as Central Florida Insurance Agency of Town 'N' Country, for further assistance.
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