Homeowner’s Insurance
Homeowner’s
Insurance (HOI) is a kind of property insurance that provides protection
against damage to, and liability associated with, private homes. These policies
typically cover the actual house itself, as well as the contents of the house,
parts of the property the house sits on, and living expenses associated with
loss of the dwelling. Liability coverage pertains to any suits that arise from
incidents on the property, for example, a neighbor trips and falls on your
snow-covered driveway and fractures his arm.
Homeowner’s insurance has some important limitations; most policies do not cover flood, war or other catastrophes. Other types of insurance coverage exist for these purposes, but it is important to read your policy to understand what is and is not covered. Some additional coverage can also be available for losses resulting from fires, and carry additional premiums as well as conditions pertaining to fire detectors, etc.
Premium vary based on a number of factors, including where a home is located geographically, where it is in proximity to emergency services, the construction materials used in the house, its age, and so on. Premiums also, of course, vary based on the underwriter. Often, discounts are provided to those who also purchase auto and other forms of insurance from the same underwriter.
Homeowner’s
insurance is a requirement of most mortgage loans, so that the lender’s
interest in the home is protected against loss or damage.
There are various types of homeowner’s insurance, designated by the breadth of coverage to the ownership status of the occupant of the structure. Renter’s can purchase a form of homeowner’s insurance, for example.