Fire insurance - that's what this used to be called because fire was one of the few losses covered by the policy. It's now more commonly referred to as homeowners insurance.
Fact. Now, a homeowners insurance policy covers a lot more than just losses resulting from fires. The policy covers theft and burglaries. If high wind blows off your roof, you have coverage. If someone comes to your home and slips on your hardwood floor, or anywhere else in the house, you have coverage if this person decides to sue you.
Unlike your auto, your home is not as susceptible to losses stemming from reckless human behavior. Drunk or negligent drivers aren't as much of a menace.
But your home is susceptible to Mother Nature.
Note. Unfortunately, the standard homeowners policy does not provide coverage for some of Mother Nature's acts.
Example. Let's say steady rains cause that nearby creek or river to rise over its banks, sending water throughout your neighborhood, including into your basement. Your homeowners policy doesn't cover flooding, so if this water causes damage, you'll have to pay for any repairs that are needed, unless you have a separate flood insurance policy.
Example. Let's say the land on which your residence sits starts to move, for one reason or another. Your foundation cracks, even collapses. Again, your homeowners policy won't cover this. You need a separate policy, usually called "difference in conditions," that covers landslides and certain other earth movement.
Example. Let's say you live in a region prone to seismic activity. An earthquake hits your community, badly damaging your house. Again, this is not something covered by your homeowners insurance. You need a separate earthquake insurance policy.
To learn more about the Ohio Homeowners Insurance Policy, visit our Learning Center.