Home insurance looks simple from the outside — one policy, one premium. But inside that policy are six separate coverages, each with its own rules, limits, and exclusions.
The 6 Coverages at a Glance
🏠 Coverage A — Dwelling
Your home structure, roof, walls, attached garage
Rebuild cost of your home
🔧 Coverage B — Other Structures
Fences, detached garage, sheds, driveway
Usually 10% of Coverage A
📦 Coverage C — Personal Property
Furniture, clothes, electronics, appliances
Usually 50-70% of Coverage A
🏨 Coverage D — Loss of Use
Hotel + meals if home is uninhabitable
Usually 20% of Coverage A
⚖️ Coverage E — Personal Liability
Lawsuits for injuries or damage you cause
$100K-$500K standard
🩺 Coverage F — Medical Payments
Minor injuries to guests — no lawsuit required
$1,000-$5,000 standard
What Is NOT Covered (The Big Gaps)
Understanding exclusions is just as important as understanding coverage. These are the most common gaps:
- Flooding — requires a separate flood policy (NFIP or private)
- Earthquakes — requires a separate earthquake endorsement or policy
- Sewer/water backup — excluded unless you add an endorsement
- Mold — usually excluded unless caused by a covered peril
- Normal wear and tear — maintenance issues are never covered
- Home business equipment — limited or excluded; need a business policy
How to Make Sure You Have the Right Coverage
The best way to protect your home is to review your policy annually with an independent agent who can compare coverage across multiple carriers. An independent agent works for you — not for any single insurance company.