What’s Covered? A No-Nonsense Guide to Your Homeowner’s Insurance Policy
Let’s be real—reading your homeowner’s insurance policy probably isn’t how you’d choose to spend a quiet evening. But here’s the thing: knowing what’s covered (and what’s not) could save you from some major headaches later.
So, grab a cup of coffee, pull up a chair, and let’s walk through it—together.
Your Home Isn’t Just a Structure. It’s a Story.
Your home holds more than furniture and framed photos. It holds your life. That’s why a homeowner’s insurance policy exists—not just to protect a building, but to protect you. When the unexpected happens—a tree crashes through the roof, a fire breaks out in the kitchen, or someone slips on your icy front steps—you want to know you’re covered.
But let’s not wait for “what if.” Let’s understand “what is.”
What Your Policy Typically Covers
Most standard homeowner’s insurance policies include these core areas:
1. Dwelling Coverage
This is the part that protects your house itself. If a covered event—like fire, hail, or vandalism—damages the physical structure of your home, this is the part of your policy that helps pay to repair or rebuild.
📝 Tip: Always make sure your coverage limit matches the cost to rebuild your home today—not what you paid for it years ago.
2. Other Structures
Think detached garage, fencing, tool sheds, or even a gazebo. If it’s on your property but not physically connected to your house, this coverage usually kicks in.
3. Personal Property
If your belongings are stolen or destroyed in a covered event (like fire or a break-in), personal property coverage helps replace them. This includes furniture, clothes, appliances—even that fancy espresso machine you love.
🧺 Laundry list idea: Walk room to room with your phone camera. That visual inventory can be a lifesaver during a claim.
4. Liability Protection
If someone gets hurt on your property and holds you responsible, this part covers legal fees and medical expenses. This even applies if your dog nips the mailman or your child accidentally breaks a neighbor’s window.
🚨 Real talk: In today’s litigious world, this one matters more than ever. Make sure your liability coverage reflects your real-life risks.
5. Additional Living Expenses (ALE)
If a covered disaster forces you out of your home, ALE helps pay for temporary living costs—think hotel bills, meals out, and laundry services.
Imagine your family of four suddenly living in a hotel for two weeks. Yeah—this part of the policy becomes your best friend fast.
What’s Not Usually Covered (And Why It Matters)
Now for the part most people overlook: exclusions.
Here are a few common ones:
Flooding: Believe it or not, floods aren’t usually covered under standard policies. You’ll need separate flood insurance for that.
Earthquakes: Like floods, earthquakes require separate policies. Even in New Jersey, this is worth asking about.
Neglect or wear-and-tear: Insurance is for sudden, unexpected events—not for that old roof you meant to replace last summer.
Pest infestations: Termites, rodents, and raccoons in the attic? Unfortunately, not covered.
Intentional damage: If damage is caused on purpose, even by a household member, it’s not eligible for coverage.
🗂️ Pro tip: Every policy has its own fine print. The goal isn’t to memorize it—but to understand the big picture. That’s what we’re here for.
A Few Add-Ons That Might Be Worth It
Some coverages aren’t included by default but can be added. These are called “endorsements” or “riders.”
Scheduled Personal Property: For high-value items like jewelry, art, or collectibles.
Water Backup Coverage: Covers damage from backed-up drains or sump pumps.
Home Business Coverage: If you run a business from home (like baking custom cakes or tutoring), ask if you need extra coverage.
Identity Theft Protection: Because life online needs a safety net too.
🌟 If it’s valuable to you—it’s worth a conversation.
Why This Isn’t a One-and-Done Conversation
Here’s the heart of it: your life changes. So should your coverage.
Got married? Bought new furniture? Renovated the kitchen? Had a baby? Those moments don’t just add joy—they add value and risk.
We recommend reviewing your policy with a trusted advisor at least once a year. And if you’re not sure who to trust, that’s what we’re here for.
In Plain Language: Why All of This Matters
We’ve seen it too many times—families who thought they were covered… until they weren’t. A policy is only as good as your understanding of it. It’s not about selling you more stuff—it’s about making sure what you already have is working for you.
And here at Sungenis, we don’t speak “insurance-ese.” We speak you.
We’re a woman-owned, locally-rooted agency in Bridgeton, NJ. We’re moms, neighbors, homeowners—just like you. And we believe that when you understand what’s covered, you sleep better at night.
Let’s Take the Next Step—Together
If your home is your safe place, then your insurance should feel just as secure. Not confusing. Not overwhelming. Just… right.
Let’s take 30 minutes to walk through your current coverage, spot any gaps, and make sure your policy is doing its job.
📞 Call today and schedule your personal coverage review.
We’ll answer your questions—no pressure, no jargon, just clear answers you can trust.
Because peace of mind isn’t a luxury. It’s a plan.
