Look for exclusions to coverage. For example, most insurance
policies do not cover flood or earthquake damage as a standard item. These
coverages must be bought separately.
Look for dollar limitations on claims. Even if you are
covered for a risk, there may a limit on how much the insurer will pay.
For example, many policies limit the amount paid for stolen jewelry unless
items are insured separately.
Understand replacement cost. If your home is destroyed
you’ll receive money to replace it only to the maximum of your coverage,
so be sure your insurance is sufficient. This means that if your home is
insured for $150,000 and it costs $180,000 to replace it, you’ll
only receive $150,000.
Understand actual cash value. If you choose not to replace
your home when it’s destroyed, you’ll receive replacement
cost, less depreciation. This is called actual cash value.
Understand liability. Generally your homeowners insurance
covers you for accidents that happen to other people on your property,
including medical care, court costs, and awards by the court. However, there
is usually an upper limit to the amount of coverage provided. Be sure that
it’s
sufficient if you have significant assets.
