Top 10 Things You Should Know About Homewoners Insurance
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Property insurance covers sudden and accidental damage — not maintenance.
Understanding the difference between a covered loss and a maintenance issue is the key to understanding your insurance. -
Condominiums are usually covered by your own individual policy and the HOA Master Policy. What each policy covers is determined partly by the insurance policies and partly by the association’s CC&Rs.
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The biggest and most common mistake condominium owners make is underinsuring their home, often because they underestimate the cost of replacing interior finishes such as flooring and cabinets, and because there are usually thousands of dollars spent on mitigation before any repairs can begin.
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Water leaks are the #1 cause of insurance claims.
Simple maintenance steps can dramatically reduce the chance of major water damage—yet many homeowners only learn this after a loss occurs. -
California’s insurance market is changing rapidly.
Some carriers are leaving the state and others are tightening underwriting standards. This has real consequences for homeowners when deciding whether to file claims. -
Your insurance declarations page tells the whole story—if you know how to read it. A quick review with someone experienced can often reveal coverage gaps in just a few minutes.
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Rental units create additional insurance considerations.
Tenants should carry renters insurance, and landlords should understand how liability coverage works when units are leased. -
Most people believe that insurance adjusters look for technicalities to deny claims and pay less than the insurance company owes. This is actually a myth. Industry insiders know two secrets that explain how adjusters handle claims which enables them to get fair claims handling and settlements.
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Insurance companies often recommend contractors after a loss.
Knowing when these vendors are helpful—and when to seek independent help—can affect the outcome of a claim. -
Public Adjusters represent homeowners in large insurance claims.
Knowing when hiring one makes sense can be an important decision after a major loss.