Homeowners Insurance You Can Trust
Your home is more than just a structure; it’s a collection of memories, dreams, and cherished moments. Our home insurance solutions are crafted to provide you with peace of mind, knowing that your sanctuary is well-protected against the unexpected.
SB Home Insurance
Expert Guidance:
Our team of experienced professionals is always on hand to guide you through the complexities of homeowners insurance, ensuring you make informed decisions..
Comprehensive Coverage Options
From dwelling coverage to liability and everything in between, we offer a broad range of coverages ensuring total protection.
Dedicated Customer Support:
Questions or concerns? Our friendly customer support team is always ready to assist, ensuring a seamless insurance experience.
Expert Counseling
Our dedicated team of insurance professionals is here to guide you, providing advice tailored to your life circumstances.
Tailored Policies:
Every home and homeowner is unique. We work closely with you to create policies that fit your specific needs and budget
Homeowners Insurance Coverages
Homeowners insurance provides financial protection against damage to your home and personal property, as well as against certain legal liabilities you may face as a homeowner. The specific coverages of a homeowners insurance policy can vary based on the provider and the policy type, but standard homeowners insurance typically includes the following coverages:
- Dwelling Coverage:
- Covers damage to the home itself (the physical structure).
- Typically protects against damage from events like fire, lightning, windstorms, hail, explosions, and vandalism.
- Other Structures Coverage:
- Covers damage to structures not attached to the main house, like garages, sheds, or fences.
- Personal Property Coverage:
- Provides coverage for the contents of your home, such as furniture, clothing, and electronics, if they are stolen, damaged, or destroyed. There are usually limits on certain types of items like jewelry, art, or collectibles, and you may need additional coverage for these items.
- Loss of Use or Additional Living Expenses:
- f your home is rendered uninhabitable due to a covered peril, this coverage can help pay for temporary housing and additional living expenses (like meals and laundry) while your home is being repaired or rebuilt.
- Personal Liability Coverage:
- Provides coverage if someone is injured on your property or if you, a family member, or a pet causes property damage or bodily injury to others. This can cover medical expenses, legal fees, and other damages you are legally responsible for.
- Medical Payments to Others:
- Pays for minor medical expenses of guests who are injured on your property, regardless of who’s at fault. It’s typically for smaller claims and doesn’t involve larger liability issues.
- Endorsements or Riders:
- These are optional coverages you can add to your policy for specific needs. For instance, you might add an endorsement for water backup coverage, which would cover damage from a backed-up sewer or drain. Another common endorsement is for scheduled personal property, which offers more extensive coverage for high-value items like jewelry or art.
- Optional Coverages:
- Some insurers might offer coverage for risks that aren’t included in a standard policy. For example, if you live in a flood-prone area, you might need separate flood insurance, as floods are not typically covered by standard homeowners policies.
Agent Tips
- Assess Your Home’s Value:
- Before purchasing insurance, have an accurate assessment of your home’s replacement value. Ensure you have enough coverage to rebuild your home in the event of total loss.
- Understand Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value:
- Replacement cost will pay to rebuild or repair your home based on current construction costs. Actual cash value factors in depreciation, meaning you’d get the replacement cost minus depreciation. Always know which one you’re choosing.
- Consider Natural Disasters:
- Depending on where you live, you might be at risk for specific natural disasters like floods, earthquakes, or hurricanes. Standard homeowners insurance might not cover these. You may need to purchase additional policies or endorsements.
- Increase Liability Limits:
- Given the potential for large lawsuits, consider opting for higher liability limits, especially if you have considerable assets.
- Document and Inventory Your Belongings:
- Regularly update an inventory of your home’s contents. It’ll make the claim process smoother if ever needed. Photos, videos, and lists can be helpful.
- Scheduled Personal Property:
- If you have valuable items like jewelry, antiques, or art, you might need to “schedule” these items separately to ensure they’re fully covered.
- Raise Your Deductible:
- If you can afford to do so, consider a higher deductible. It can lower your premium, but remember that you’ll have to pay that amount out-of-pocket before insurance kicks in.
- Discounts and Bundling:
- Ask your insurance provider about discounts. Many companies offer discounts if you bundle your home and auto insurance. There may also be discounts for security systems, smoke alarms, or being claim-free.
- Regularly Review and Update:
- As mentioned previously, review your policy periodically. If you renovate your home or purchase valuable items, you’ll want to adjust your coverage accordingly.
- Ask About Endorsements:
- Endorsements can customize your policy to fit unique needs. For instance, if you run a business from home, you might need an endorsement for business-related equipment.
- Understand Policy Exclusions:
- Always be aware of what’s not covered. This way, you won’t be caught off guard in the event of a claim.
- Consider Umbrella Insurance:
- If you want additional liability coverage beyond your homeowners and auto insurance limits, an umbrella policy can provide this. It can be especially valuable if you have significant assets or are at higher risk of lawsuits.
- Stay Proactive:
- Reducing the risk of damage can sometimes lower your premiums. This might include installing storm shutters, reinforcing your roof, or retrofitting an older home for earthquakes.When it comes to homeowners insurance, being well-informed and proactive can ensure you get the best coverage for your needs at the most competitive rates.
When it comes to homeowners insurance, being well-informed and proactive can ensure you get the best coverage for your needs at the most competitive rates.