What’s Covered Under Florida Homeowner’s Insurance?
If you’re a homeowner, following the adage “hope for the best but prepare for the worst” can keep you from paying for costly repairs. A quality homeowners insurance plan is essential to ensuring unexpected damage doesn’t put you in a precarious financial situation. However, understanding the ins and outs of insurance and deciding what kind you need can be overwhelming. Keep reading to learn the basics of Florida homeowners’ insurance coverage.
What’s Covered Under Florida Homeowner’s Insurance?
Homeowner’s insurance in Florida has the standard offerings found in most states. But, remember, while most companies offer the same types of liability and property coverage, the policies will differ from company to company.
Structural Damage
Structural damage coverage seems straightforward, and many homeowners assume that it covers all damage to structural components of their home, such as load-bearing walls, foundation, and the roof. However, the damage to the structure must be caused by a covered peril, an event that could potentially damage your home or items. Flooding is not a covered peril; you would need specific flood insurance for damages caused by flooding.
For example, a fire that destroyed your home’s roof would fall under covered structural damage. However, tree roots growing into your sewer pipes would not fall under the category of structural damages.
Other Structures
Other structure coverage refers to property such as fences, sheds, and garages. However, if these secondary structures are damaged by flooding, they will not be covered under your homeowner’s policy either; you would need a separate flood insurance policy.
Personal Property
The contents of your home constitute personal property. In the event of a covered peril, your furniture, clothing, sporting goods, electronics, and other physical items would be eligible for reimbursement.
Loss of Use
Loss of use coverage is designed to keep you from suffering financial loss if you are forced to leave your house due to a covered peril. This reimbursement covers reasonable living expenses while you are displaced.
Personal Liability and Medical Payments
If someone is injured on your property, personal liability coverage will protect your assets if they sue you. This coverage includes everyone who visits your home, from an electrician to your best friend. In addition, should someone be injured at your home and require medical care, medical payments coverage will reimburse approved medical bills.
Not all insurance policies are equal, so you’ll want to examine all your options thoroughly. For help finding the best policy for your home, contact DTRT Insurance today.
