Homeowners Insurance in Norcross, GA
Home insurance is among the most common coverages purchased and maintained by many Americans. These policies provide crucial financial protection for homeowners and their property. Those without adequate coverage may be putting their finances at risk.
What Does Home Insurance Cover?
Also known as homeowners insurance, home insurance casts a wide safety net across many common risks and exposures. While policies may vary depending on specific circumstances, most home insurance can be relied on to provide financial assistance after the following incidents:
- Fires
- Smoke damage
- Lightning
- Windstorms
- Hail
- Theft
- Vandalism
- Riots or civil commotion
- Explosions
- Damage caused by vehicles or aircraft
- Falling objects (e.g., tree limbs, rocks)
Policyholders can generally access financial resources in response to the perils mentioned above. Coverage usually includes losses and damages involving the following:
- Primary residence—If the physical aspects of a policyholder’s dwelling (e.g., foundations, roof, plumbing and electrical systems) are damaged, home insurance can help pay for repair or rebuild costs.
- Additional structures—Most home insurance policies can also render financial aid if a covered event damages structures on a policyholder’s property aside from their main residence, such as detached garages and sheds.
- Contents—This coverage can help homeowners recoup losses involving their possessions, such as electronics, furniture and clothing.
- Liability—If a homeowner or another insured listed on the policy is at fault for the losses of another party, such as a neighbor, guest or passerby, this coverage can provide financial assistance.
- Loss-of-use—Home insurance may help pay for temporary living expenses if a covered event forces a policyholder to vacate the premises. This may include funds for hotel accommodations or restaurant meals.
How Much Does Home Insurance Cost?
Insurance companies must consider many criteria while assessing a homeowner’s coverage needs and calculating a quote. Premiums may vary significantly even among policyholders who live in the same areas or own similar properties. In most cases, the following factors may impact a homeowner’s costs:
- Location
- Age of home
- Building materials
- Property details (e.g., attractive nuisances, security systems, valuable possessions)
- Estimated rebuild cost
- Policy details (e.g., coverage limits, endorsements, deductibles)
- Claims history
How Much Home Insurance Do Homeowners Need?
Home insurance can often be customized to suit a homeowner’s needs and circumstances. When shopping for an adequate home insurance policy, homeowners should consider the following:
- Cost of a full rebuild
- Possessions and valuables that would need to be replaced
- Potential liability risks (e.g., pets, swimming pools, trees limbs hanging across property lines)
- Temporary living costs if forced to vacate the premises
When to Buy Home Insurance?
Homeowners should ensure adequate home insurance is in place when closing on their purchase. In most cases, homeowners should begin shopping around after signing a contract to buy the home. By doing so, they will generally be able to spend at least a few weeks exploring and assessing coverage options before closing. Homeowners may also need to pay for the first year’s worth of their home insurance in advance. Many lenders will include this in the closing costs.
Get the Right Coverage
At Express Insurance, our agents have the knowledge, experience and dedication to ensure homeowners in the Norcross area are protected by optimal coverage solutions. Contact us today to get started.