CA DRE #00851293
Colleen Fitzpatrick , CA DRE #00851293Phone: (415) 602-0553
Email: [email protected]

A homeowner's guide to dwelling coverage

by Colleen Fitzpatrick 02/12/2024

Dwelling coverage, also called dwelling insurance, is part of every standard homeowners insurance policy. Dwelling coverage concerns the physical structure of your home, and can help you recoup financially if it’s damaged.

While most homeowners insurance policies include dwelling coverage, it can be confusing to determine what sort of damaging events are covered. Here is a quick reference guide to what types of covered peril or hazards:

Natural hazards

Dwelling coverage is used to help pay for damage sustained from natural disasters or hazards. If the structure of your home is damaged by fire or smoke, windstorms, lightning strikes, hail, snow, sleet or ice, you may be entitled to compensation to cover the cost.

However, it’s important to note that not all natural hazards are covered by this homeowners policy. For example, windstorms do not include tornadoes. If you live in a region where tornadoes are common, you will need to purchase an additional tornado insurance policy.

For areas prone to earthquakes or flooding, you would also need to get additional coverage for these hazards. Consulting an insurance agent in your area will help you determine what insurance coverage is best for your situation.

It’s also crucial to remember that dwelling coverage only counts for the physical structure. This means it won’t cover the cost to replace carpeting or hardwood floors damaged by smoke from a fire. Typically, interior elements like flooring are covered under another portion of your homeowners insurance policy.

Other hazards

Dwelling insurance protects you from hazards beyond natural or weather-related events. Human-caused damage to the home structure from vandalism or theft are covered under this part of the policy.

Other hazards included in coverage are falling objects, damage from motor vehicles and damage from aircraft. If any of these issues should cause personal property damage, your insurance will pay for repairs.

Dwelling coverage and other specific policies can make an enormous difference in your recovery from the unlikely event of a covered disaster. By knowing exactly what dwelling insurance covers, you can have more peace of mind knowing your provider will help you recoup your losses.

About the Author
Author

Colleen Fitzpatrick

Having the distinction of representing many of Marin and San Francisco’s most luxurious homes, Colleen Fitzpatrick brings a wealth of expertise and experience to her clients. Her finesse in handling high-end transactions has been finely tuned with the highest level of integrity and diplomacy. Associating with Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty has further broadened her sphere to include a network of highly skilled associates all over the world.

Throughout her career, Colleen has partnered in the construction of over 25 homes, 4 for her own family, and participated in numerous land subdivision projects, so her clients benefit from her broadened perspective. In her free time, travel, especially to India, has become her passion.

Colleen’s commitment to her client’s success, adhering to the highest level of professionalism, and holding her support team to this same standard is assured. She is highly aware of the discretion and privacy necessary for her clientele. Working with Colleen, sellers, and buyers can be confident they have made an excellent choice in their selection of an agent.

Designations: Broker, CA DRE #00851293