It doesn’t matter if you’ve just bought your first home or the home you plan to retire in — your home is special. This is where your family comes together, where memories are made, and where you’ve built a life in California. Make sure it’s protected with a solid home insurance policy.
What’s included in a California home insurance policy?
A standard Calinfornia home insurance policy will include certain types of protection and coverage. Liability and property damage, as well as replacement of some but not all personal belongings. The amount of insurance coverage you have is determined by your policy limits.
Liability Coverage: If someone is injured or experiences property damage on your property or in your home, you’re liable for their medical treatment and damages. Liability coverage takes care of these expenses as well as potential lawsuits or settlements that may arise from the accident.
Property Damage: When your home or personal belongings are damaged after a fire, storm, or other covered peril, your California homeowners insurance policy will pay to repair or replace what you’ve lost. Your homeowners insurance policy limit should be enough to rebuild your California home if necessary. Your limit for replacing personal belongings will be a percentage of your total policy limit.
What perils are covered by home insurance in California?
Every policy may be different, based on what the insurance company provides and which policy you choose. In general, most California homeowners insurance policies cover specific perils that could damage or destroy your home:
- Fire and smoke
- Lightning, hail, windstorms
- Theft, vandalism, and malicious mischief
- Falling objects
- Damage from the weight of ice, snow or sleet
- Water damage (but not flooding)
- Explosions
- Damage from other vehicles
What’s not included in standard California home insurance coverage?
Certain perils that all homeowners in California face aren’t necessarily covered by a standard homeowners policy. The good news is that you can buy additional coverage to fully protect your home.
Earthquake Insurance: Earthquake insurance isn’t the same in every California city or region. Where you live determines the risk you face and the type of policy you need. Your standard home insurance policy does not cover damages or losses from an earthquake. You’ll need a separate policy.
Flood Insurance: Flooding is different from water damage you sustain in your home, and it’s not covered by a standard policy. You can purchase flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) through PTL Insurance Brokers. If waters begin to rise, your homeowners insurance won’t be able to help you — only flood insurance can.
Buying a new home in California? PTL Insurance Brokers can help you start your new life with the right type and amount of home insurance. Haven’t thought about your home insurance in years? We can help you update your policy so your home is protected from whatever happens next. Contact us today!
