When it comes to homeowners insurance, knowing what’s not covered before a claim is the only way to rest easy.
Inspect your policy paying as much attention to the section on “losses we do not cover” as you do to “losses we cover.”
Most homeowners policies include common exclusions such as:
— Freezing.
— Repeated seepage and leakage.
— Vandalism or malicious mischief is your dwelling is vacant for an extended time, such as 30 days.
— Insects and rodents.
— Flooding.
— “Earth movement” including earthquakes, mudflow and sinkholes.
— Mold.
— Nuclear action, radiation or radioactive contamination.
— War.
In some cases, endorsements may be available to beef up coverage and provide peace of mind. An endorsement to cover sewage backup, for example, may cost only $100 to $250 a year. Weigh your risk and ask questions of your agent to determine available endorsement and costs.