HOMEOWNERS & DWELLING FIRE INSURANCE

The homeowners insurance policy provides protection against the financial consequences of personal losses. A homeowners insurance policy is a combination of property and liability coverages. The homeowners insurance policy is tailored to meet the needs of a homeowner. The following is a basic outline of the homeowners insurance (1-10-3) policy and the endorsements most widely used on the 1-10-3 policy.

The 1-10-3 insurance policy provides coverages for one or two family dwellings that are owner occupied. The 1-10-3 insurance policy provides coverage against risks of direct physical loss to real property, except for those causes of loss that are specifically excluded. Personal property is covered against direct physical loss caused by a specified peril. In addition to the coverages stated under Section I, several additional coverages are included. Some of the coverages included are; debris removal, fire department charges, reasonable repairs charges, property removal charges, and coverage for trees, shrubs and plants. Coverage is also included for loss involving credit cards, forgery, and counterfeit money. These additional coverages are included to provide protection for the insured following a covered property loss. Each additional coverage has limitations and is subject to certain conditions.

Dwelling

This amount of insurance applies to the dwelling and attached structures. The limit of insurance for the dwelling is based on the value of the home and what it would cost to replace the home.

Other Structures

This coverage limit applies to detached structures such as a garage or storage shed. The limit of coverage is set at 10% of the dwelling. The insured can purchase a higher limit.

Personal Property

Coverage C provides worldwide coverage for personal property of the insured. Special limits apply to some types of property, and some propeliy is excluded from coverage. The overall limit for coverage is 50% of the dwelling limit. Coverage C can be modified in several ways with endorsements.

Loss of Use

This coverage applies in the event of a loss under Coverage A. If the insured was to temporarily lose use of the dwelling this coverage would apply. Payment would be made for expenses incurred to live elsewhere following a loss that makes the home unsuitable for living. Another method used to determine payment for loss of use is fair rental value, which is the amount of rent that could reasonably be charged for the premises, less any expenses that do not continue while the premises are unsuitable for living.

Personal Liability

Section II of the homeowners insurance policy provides liability coverage for personal loss exposures. The insuring agreement under Coverage E provides liability coverage if a claim is made or suit is brought against an insured because of bodily injury or property damage. Coverage is provided for the residence premise as well as any other premises used by the insured, as a residence, permanently or temporarily. Liability coverage is provided for the named insured and members of the named insured's household who are relatives. Personal liability has a basic limit of $100,000 per occurrence, which the insured may increase for an additional premium. In addition to the basic limit, Coverage E also provides additional coverages for expenses such as defense cost, expenses incurred providing first aid to others, damage to property of others and loss assessment charges. The additional coverages provided under Section E are subject to limitations and certain conditions.

Medical Payments

This coverage will pay the necessary medical expenses for bodily injury of others. Coverage applies to accidents that occur on the insured premises or any location when caused by action of the insured. The coverage has a basic limit of $1,000 per person. The insured may select higher limits.

Endorsements