Guessing isn’t a great strategy when your house is on the line.

Homeowners insurance is one of those things you hope you never have to use. In fact, most people don’t even read their home insurance policy until something goes wrong. And that is a stressful way to find out what is actually included and what isn’t.

When life gets messy (whether it's a burst pipe, windstorm, or break-in), your policy can be the safety net that keeps a bad day from turning into a financial disaster.

That said, not all policies are created equal. We get a lot of questions from homeowners who want a clear answer to a simple question: What does MY home insurance really cover?

Let’s walk through a typical home policy in plain terms so you can feel confident your policy protects what matters most.

Most standard homeowners' insurance policies include several types of protection. The core categories look like this:

1. Dwelling CoverageThis protects the structure of your home. If your house is damaged by events such as fire, hail, lightning, wind, or falling objects, this part of your policy helps cover the cost of repairs or rebuilding.

2. Personal PropertyIf your belongings are stolen or damaged by a covered event, this portion of your policy helps replace items like furniture, electronics, clothing, or kitchenware. Some higher-value items, such as jewelry or collectibles, may need extra coverage to be fully protected.

3. Liability ProtectionIf someone gets hurt on your property or you accidentally damage someone else’s property, liability coverage helps cover medical bills, legal costs, and settlement expenses.

4. Additional Living Expenses If your home becomes temporarily unlivable due to a covered claim, your policy can help pay for hotel stays, meals, or temporary housing.

This part surprises people more often than it should. Standard home insurance policies have some clear exclusions, which means they won’t pay out if the damage falls under these categories:

• Flood damage
• Earthquakes
• Routine wear and tear
• Pest infestations
• Mold (unless it results from a covered event)
• Damage caused by neglect or lack of maintenance

Flood and earthquake insurance can usually be purchased separately, but they are rarely included by default. If you’re in an area where those are real risks, it’s worth having a conversation.

Every home is different. A cookie-cutter policy might leave you exposed, especially if you’ve made renovations, installed solar panels, or added valuable items over the years.

At the Wallace Agency, we help homeowners review their coverage and fill in the gaps. We’ll take the time to explain your policy, flag anything that’s missing, and answer your questions before a disaster happens.

Need help reviewing your current coverage? Call now or click here to schedule a simple, pressure-free insurance review. We’re here to make sure your home, and everything in it, is protected the way it should be.