Homeowners Insurance

As a homeowner, you must take steps to protect your property financially. While you may be able to mitigate risks and minimize the chance of accidents, some incidents, such as weather-related damages, may be out of your control. With this in mind, understanding and maintaining appropriate homeowners insurance is essential.

What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?

Homeowners insurance can provide financial security for you, your family and your property. These policies, also known as home insurance, can typically be customized to suit your circumstances but generally include coverage for the following:

• Primary residence—If a covered peril damages the structure of your home, including its walls, roof, plumbing and electrical systems, your insurance may help pay for repairs.
• Additional structures—This coverage may financially protect detached structures on your property, including garages, sheds, gazebos, guest houses and fences.
• Personal belongings—The contents of your home, including furniture, electronics and clothing, may also be protected financially by homeowners insurance.
• Personal liability—If you or another insured are at fault for an incident from which a third party, such as a guest, neighbor or passerby, suffers financial losses, this coverage may provide financial assistance.
• Temporary living expenses—This component of homeowners insurance may help pay for alternative lodging, restaurant meals and other costs if a covered incident makes your home temporarily uninhabitable.

Is Homeowners Insurance Required?

Although homeowners insurance is not typically required by law, you may be subject to other obligations. For example, if you hold a mortgage, your lender may require you to maintain certain levels of coverage throughout your loan. Some homeowners may also be subject to additional requirements, such as those imposed by a homeowners association.

How Much Does Homeowners Insurance Cost?

When assessing your risk levels, identifying your coverage needs and quoting a rate for appropriate coverage, insurance companies must thoroughly analyze your unique circumstances. This process typically may entail consideration of the following factors:

• Estimated cost of a full rebuild
• Structural details of your home (e.g., age and building materials used)
• Location
• Valuable possessions
• Property features (e.g., security systems and attractive nuisances)
• Claims history
• Policy details (e.g., deductibles, endorsements and coverage limits)

Get the Right Coverage

At Chichester Insurance Agency, our dedicated staff has the knowledge, experience and resources to craft optimal coverage for you and your home. Visit our website or call 803-786-2224 for a personalized quote or to learn more.