Are You Prepared for a Sewer Backup?

While many homeowners assume otherwise, their insurance policies do not cover a sewer backup. However, there is separate coverage available. In comparison with the cost of dealing with the aftermath of a sewer backup, coverage is a true bargain. Homeowners are responsible for repairing and maintaining the portion of pipeline that connects their home with their city’s sanitary sewer main. Since this pipeline is actually owned by the homeowner, any parts of it that extend into the public right of way or street are also included. Working on these pipes is a costly chore, so it is important for all homeowners to know how sewer backups are caused. The following three types of blockages are the most common causes of backups.

Tree Roots Blocking Pipelines
Trees thrive on water, so their roots often gravitate toward cracks in sewer lines. While the growth starts with a few tiny roots penetrating the pipe, they eventually get thicker and expand. They often enter pipelines near the joints, which results in major blockages. Unfortunately, tree roots can eventually span the entire length of the pipe and cause a complete clog. If trees owned by the city are suspected of causing problems, contact their cleanup department immediately. They will often sample the roots to determine who is responsible for cleanup. In some situations, a combination of city trees and privately owned trees are to blame. When this happens, the city and the property owner must split the cost of cleanup and repairs.

Heavy Rains Clogging Storm Sewers
If a sanitary sewer or storm sewer is unable to contain the amount of rain falling, a backup may occur. Water typically enters the home through washtubs, toilets or sump wells in the basement. While damage is most common in the basement, it may occur anywhere in the home. To help avoid this problem, make sure there is a sump pump to drain the water and a generator that will run the pump if the power goes out.

Sanitary Main Blockages
Several types of blockages are possible in the sanitary main. Blockages result in sewage backing up into the home itself. Fortunately, this occurrence is gradual, so there is time to call a plumber before the house is overtaken with sewage. In some cases, there may be a rapid flow of water coming in through the basement. When this happens, it is important to call the city’s public works office immediately.

Each of these events can be very costly. Sewage and standing water can also be hazardous to human health. In addition to this, they destroy nearly every tangible object they meet in a home. A simple calculation of the cost of replacing damaged items and comparing it to the cost of insurance is enough to clarify the importance of adequate coverage. To learn how to obtain protection from sewer backups, discuss available options with an agent today.

How to Protect a Vacant Home

When the summer season approaches, many families and couples start planning their vacations. Whether the destination is near or far, it is important to make sure the home is properly protected. Locking the door and setting the alarm is not enough. The following five tips provide useful information for making a vacant home look less attractive to criminals.

1. Make the house look occupied. Although the home will be vacant, it is important to make any unwanted visitors think twice. If criminals think someone is home, they are much less likely to break in. Purchase timers for several wall outlets. By plugging lamps into these timers, it is possible to program the lights to turn on and off randomly throughout the day. Many DVR systems turn the television screen on when they begin a scheduled recording. If this is the case, set the DVR to record random movies and shows. Another way to make the home less attractive is to set up music to play at different times.

2. Have a neighbor check on the house. Everyone should make friends with at least one person or family in the neighborhood. Since most homeowners want to make their surrounding environment as peaceful as possible, they are usually willing to keep an eye on a vacant property. In addition to watching for burglars, they can watch for smoke or other serious problems with the home.

3. Keep windows, doors and all openings closed and locked. While this tip may seem like it would fall under the category of common sense, many homeowners forget to close a window or lock a door before leaving. Even a window that is slightly open may attract a criminal. When the home is vacant, there is no reason to leave any windows or doors unlocked. If a neighbor will be feeding a pet or bringing in the mail, supply that individual with a key. Never leave even a side door unlocked. Burglars also know that keys are hidden in fake rocks, under doormats or on windowsills, so avoid leaving extra keys out.

4. Hold mail and package deliveries. I:t is best to request a hold for packages and regular mail. A package sitting on a doorstep for a long period of time will look very attractive to a thief. Many criminals look through mailboxes for cards containing money, statements with personal information or any other items of interest. It is possible to fill out a convenient hold form online for regular mail.

5. Activate the security system. If the home does not currently have one of these systems, get one before leaving for vacation. In addition to sounding sirens and alerting law enforcement, they detect carbon monoxide and several other problems in the home. There are also wireless systems, which will still alert law enforcement officials if power cords are cut.

Vacations provide great opportunities for families or couples to enjoy time together. However, burglaries and disasters in the home have the potential to cast a pall on these happy memories. They also create needless hassles and expenses. Before taking off for vacation this year, be sure the house is ready.

How to Properly Prepare for a Wildfire

In the U.S. today, many homes are being built in wooded areas. Rural plains, forests and mountains are all becoming popular construction sites. Although homeowners in such areas enjoy fresh air and beautiful scenery, they also face the risk of wildfires. Some homes survive wildfires, but many are destroyed each year. However, homes that survive are almost always the result of prepared homeowners. By preparing now, homeowners in every risky area can protect themselves, their families and their homes.

Always practice wildfire safety. Avoid leaving fires unattended, and never start an outdoor fire pit on a windy day. Cigarettes should be disposed of in approved containers. To learn more ways to prevent wildfires at home, contact the local health department, fire department and forestry office. Make sure emergency vehicles have easy access to the home. Signs, addresses and home names should be displayed clearly. When someone else is doing something that may start a fire, report the activity to the fire department. Keep all matches out of the reach of kids, and be sure to teach them about fire safety. Families should also make an emergency escape plan, review it often and post it in a visible area with emergency phone numbers. It is crucial to talk to neighbors about fire safety. If all neighbors are vigilant and informed, it is easier to report flames before they become out-of-control blazes.

Make a safety zone around the house. When designing a home or landscape theme, be sure to select materials and vegetation that help contain a fire instead of spreading it. Non-combustible building materials and water-containing vegetation are helpful aids. Keep grass watered, and avoid letting any vegetation dry out. Keep in mind that conifers are more likely to burn than hardwood trees. When creating this safety zone, make sure it is about 30 feet to 100 feet in length, and it should encompass the entire home. Here are a few additional tips:

-Remove all dead leaves, trees or limbs from your property.
-Trim any tree branches hanging over the home or near chimneys.
-Have the power company remove branches near power lines.
-Remove vines from the home’s exterior walls.
-Clear the areas surrounding propane tanks or grills, and put a screen over the grill.
-Never stack firewood next to the home.

Protect and maintain the home. If there are any chimneys, have them inspected at least twice each year. They should be cleaned annually, and dampers should be in good condition. Have chimneys fitted with spark arresters. For more information about specifications for these products, contact the local fire department. The following steps are also helpful:

-Clean the roof and gutters regularly.
-Keep ladders and fire tools in accessible places, and teach family members how to use them.
-Use mesh screens below floor areas, decks, porches, attics and roofs.
-Make sure a functional dual-sensor smoke alarm is installed on each floor.
-Install fire-resistant shutters and drapes.
-Keep valuables and important documents in a fire-proof safe.

Plan ahead for water needs. Anyone who lives in a wooded area should have access to a small pond, a well, a cistern or a swimming pool. Installing a hydrant is also a good option. Make sure there is a hose long enough to reach from the home to an outdoor faucet or pump. If the home is in an area that freezes during the winter, be sure to purchase freeze-proof outlets.

If conditions seems favorable for wildfires, have a bag packed and ready to go. Have a radio or television on at all times. When evacuation orders are given, follow them immediately. Even if those who stay behind may not feel in danger of catching on fire, the smoke can be just as dangerous. Have a vehicle ready to go. If the garage has an automatic door, open it and disable the automatic function. Be sure to have any medications for family members or pets ready to go. Make arrangements for temporary housing at a hotel, a friend’s house or an emergency housing location. Be sure to call neighbors who might be concerned. Call a family member or friend, and tell that individual about any temporary relocation plans.

Keeping Your Home Safe During Vacation

Vacation is a time every family, couple or individual looks forward to. However, home invaders can easily ruin vacations. When a person gets a call from the authorities about such an incident, it often cuts the trip short. Leaving a home with broken windows or doors can only invite more trouble, so homeowners usually find themselves on the next flight home. Fortunately, there are several simple steps people can take to reduce the chance of a burglary in a vacant home.

1. Make sure all windows and doors are locked. Construct a checklist to make sure each door and window is checked twice before leaving. Every shutter, blind and drape should be drawn shut.

2. Make the home look occupied. There are several ways to go about this task. A cute note letting neighbors know the family is on vacation may seem like a good idea, but it is the same as putting an invitation on the door for burglars. Set timer switches for lamps to turn on and off randomly. If there is a DVR, set it to record shows randomly and turn the television on during the process.

3. Have a neighbor keep watch. Give a trusted neighbor a spare key. Have that individual pick up the mail every day and check on the home. If it is not possible to set timer switches for lamps, have the neighbor turn lights on and off randomly.

4. Make sure the garage is closed and locked. Leaving the door open is the same as putting a bright flashing sign in the front yard notifying burglars that the home is vacant. Keep the door locked. If there are windows, cover them up to keep burglars from seeing inside.

5. Never leave spare keys in the yard. That cute little rock disguised as a key holder may seem clever, but burglars are very familiar with every form of key enclosure. If a key must be left behind, make sure it is in the hands of a trusted neighbor.

6. Arrange for lawn care. Do not tell lawn care professionals that the home will be vacant. Pay them in advance, but instruct them to clean up well. Keeping the yard groomed and leaving some toys or accessories scattered around on the porch makes the home look occupied.

7. Discontinue regular delivery services. If newspapers, milk or other regular deliveries are arranged, put holds on them. Never leave notes on doors for delivery personnel.

8. Do not make vacation plans public knowledge. Never post plans to travel on social media sites. Do not tell any unfamiliar people in the neighborhood about the trip, and make sure local newspapers do not publicize any plans. Only trusted neighbors, close friends or family members should know about travel plans.

9. Have the mail held. If a trusted neighbor cannot pick up the mail every day, have it held. This can be arranged online or by visiting a local post office.

10. Invest in a home security system. This solution may not be compatible with every person’s budget. However, it is a good investment for those who can afford it. Many companies offer free installation as a promotional special. New technology allows homeowners to monitor activities from the Internet or their smart phones. Another option is to hire a house sitter. If this is the chosen option, make sure the individual knows self-defense techniques and has adequate means to practice them.

Preventing Water Damage & Dealing With Flooding

When spring arrives each year, many homeowners are reminded that flood damage is not covered under a homeowners policy. However, water damage is covered under a homeowners insurance policy. It is important to understand the difference between water damage and flooding. Water damage is defined as damage that comes downward from the top. Although this is not completely accurate in all situations, it is a good rule to remember. If the water is above ground level, the incident is probably covered. However, there is an exception. If damage is caused by a pipe that is letting water drip slowly into the home, it is not covered.

When it comes time to file a claim, it is important to know how the water damage occurred. To prevent further destruction, it is important to clean up the water immediately. Take pictures first, soak up the water and try to dry the area. Although water damage can leave surfaces looking unsightly, neglected areas can leave behind mold with the moisture. Mold is harmful and can ruin sinks, walkways, walls and carpets quickly.

Anyone who has ever tried to clean black mold off of a bathroom surface knows just how important prevention is. Check caulking and sealant around tubs and sinks frequently. If it starts to crack or appears reddish, reapply new sealant. Keep water off the floors by using bathmats. After taking a shower, hang the bathmat up to dry. It is also important to check pipes frequently. A tiny leak can result in thousands of dollars in damages. Even minor plumbing work is not something everyone can do. It may seem easy, but it is very precise work. Anyone who does not have experience should enlist the help of professionals.

Water damage cannot always be prevented. However, homeowners can take several steps to greatly reduce the likelihood of damage by following the suggestions in the previous paragraphs. It is also helpful to check the roof frequently. Water seeping into the walls from the roof can create entire colonies of harmful mold. Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent flooding in some areas. People who have beautiful riverfront properties enjoy some great views, but they may also face the risk of severe flooding. Anyone who lives in a waterfront area or a region where flash floods and rain are common should look into specialized flood insurance. In comparison with the cost of compensating for flood damages upfront, the cost of a specialized policy is very affordable. To obtain this valuable coverage, discuss the details with an agent.

How to Fight & Prevent Mold Growth in the Home

It is important for homeowners to take the right steps to prevent mold and mildew growing in the home. If there is already mold growing, it is important to remove it immediately. Moisture in the basement, attic, kitchen or bathroom creates an ideal place for mold to grow and spread. If mildew is left untreated, it can ruin furniture, fabric and walls. It can also trigger allergic reactions and other physical illnesses in family members. Battling mold growth is an ongoing challenge, but there are a few helpful steps homeowners can take to keep their living spaces free of this annoying fungus.

1. Find the cause of any moisture buildup or leak. To find leaks and moisture buildup, look over the entire house frequently. Be sure to look in places that do not see much foot traffic. For example, closets, empty rooms and corners are all places homeowners should check. Cracks, crevices and folds of drapes are common hiding place for mildew. If there is moisture, find out where it is coming from.

2. After finding a leak, patch it up immediately. Leaks that originate outdoors should be treated when the house is dry. Windows, roofs and exterior cracks should be fixed as quickly as possible. When improper ventilation is found to worsen the problem, consider purchasing air conditioning units, exhaust fans or dehumidifiers. If necessary, install extra insulation.

3. Remove mold or mildew from any surfaces. If there is mold in the carpet, vacuum it up. When doing this, use the brush attachment. This may not be the best way to clean mold if the vacuum itself is difficult to clean. Many newer bag-free models are easy to clean, but older vacuums with bags may hold smells for a long time. Another option is to use a stiff brush to remove mold from carpeted surfaces.

4. Clean the affected area well. Bleach is the best chemical to use for battling mold and mildew. After cleaning away the fungal growth, use a solution of one-fourth cup of bleach to one gallon of water. Never use hot water with bleach. While cleaning, be sure to wear rubber gloves. Use a sponge, mop or spray bottle to distribute the solution throughout the affected area. Rinse the surface with fresh cool water. Set up fans to dry the area thoroughly.

5. Use mold-resistant paint. After cleaning mold or mildew from a wall, it is best to paint over the area. Choose a mold-resistant paint to prevent future incidents. This paint can be found at any major home improvement store or paint retailer. There are also some mold-resistant wood stains available.

6. Air out moldy furniture and fabrics. Furniture, upholstery and drapes that cannot be put in the washing machine should be put outside to air out. Sun exposure will also help, so try to leave them out during the brightest hours of the day.

7. Wash fabrics to remove mold or mildew. Any clothing, curtains, bedding or other fabrics that have mold or mildew should be washed in hot water. Use laundry bleach in the wash cycle. Be sure to follow each item’s washing instructions. If it cannot be washed in hot water, take it to a professional cleaning company that specializes in mold removal.

The best bet for battling mold is proper preventative techniques. Following the first three steps in this paragraph on a regular basis is a great start. Be sure to keep the house properly ventilated at all times. Rugs, towels and other items that get wet frequently should be washed regularly. After using bath rugs, hang them on towel racks or over the shower to prevent mildew buildup on the bottom surface. If bathrooms or rooms frequently exposed to moisture have carpet, consider replacing the carpet with tile. 

Insurance & Lawsuit Considerations for Homeowners with Dogs

More than 30 percent of homeowners insurance claims result from dog bites. In 2011, insurers paid out more than $450 million for dog bite claims. Research shows that the average payout for a dog bite claim was about $29,000 in 2011. That number reflects more than a 12 percent increase since 2010. Between the years of 2003 and 2011, the average cost of a dog bite claim increased by more than 50 percent. This increase was due to rising medical costs and larger settlement award policies. However, awards have risen far above the normal rate of inflation. This information should have every homeowner who owns a dog concerned.

There are three types of laws regarding dog owner liability, but not every type of law applies in each state.

One Bite Rule
In some states, a dog’s first biting incident does not mean an owner will be held liable. However, the second incident will not be excused. Owners will be liable for dogs showing vicious propensity, which means such dogs repeatedly show aggressive behavior and try to bite others. Although some states still allow one bite to go unpunished, many states are doing away with this rule and holding owners liable for all incidents.

Dog Bite Statute
This law states that dog owners are liable for all injuries or damages resulting from a dog bite, and provocation of the dog is not considered.

Negligence Laws
Some states rule that dog owners are liable only if they are careless in controlling the dog. For example, a person who is bitten after entering a yard uninvited may not have a case, but a neighbor who is bitten when the owner is present and fails to restrain the dog will have a case. In almost every state, dog owners are not liable for injuries of trespassers who are bitten. This is especially true if the owner displays signs warning others that a dog is on the premises.

When owners are liable for dog bites, they must reimburse the injured party for lost wages, medical bills, property damage and pain or suffering related to the bite. Although some people buy dogs to protect their properties, security systems and deadbolt locks can be less expensive. In addition to this, these features can actually lower insurance premiums.

This does not mean homeowners should take their beloved pets to the pound. There are ways to stay properly insured and avoid costly legal battles. Most liability policies cover between $100,000 and $300,000, so homeowners are responsible for any amount beyond that. Keep in mind that the no-fault medical coverage is also awarded. Although most insurers are willing to work with dog owners, they will issue a higher premium after the first biting incident. In some cases, the dog may be excluded from coverage. Some policies exclude certain breeds that are known to have vicious tendencies. Not all insurers will drop the dog, but some may require dog owners to take behavior classes with their pets.

Since many lawsuits exceed the maximum insurance allowance, it is best for homeowners with dogs to buy an umbrella policy. This type of insurance is similar to a safety net. When the maximum benefits in the homeowners policy are spent, the umbrella policy covers additional expenses up to a certain amount. Umbrella liability usually ranges between $1 million and $10 million. In addition to being properly insured with homeowners and umbrella policies, it is wise to take steps to prevent dog bites. The following tips are helpful:

– Purchase a muzzle for the dog to wear when introducing it to new people. Many pet stores sell muzzles that flex enough for the dog to drink water, breathe or vomit, so they are not dangerous to the animal.

– Keep the dog confined while guests are present. Dogs can stay in crates, other rooms or outdoors.

– Never leave the dog alone with visitors’ children. Dogs think differently than humans and may bite fearful children or timid adults.

– Enroll the dog in professional behavior training and socialization classes.

– Have the dog spayed or neutered to reduce hormones related to aggression.

Your Mortgage, Your Homeowners Insurance and Forced Placed Coverage

When you take out a mortgage, part of the agreement is that you will purchase adequate homeowners insurance coverage. Adequate coverage usually means that you are insured for the replacement of your home to 100% of replacement value or that your home has enough coverage to address the amount of the loan. While the latter may mean that the mortgage company wants enough coverage to pay the outstanding loan balance, most homeowners policies do not cover the loan amount, just the rebuilding of a home. In a nutshell, the mortgage company wants to make sure that they are protected if your home suffers an insurable loss such as fire or water damage. If you are in a flood zone, they will require you to get separate flood insurance, as regular homeowners policies exclude damage caused by flood and ground water.

Your mortgage company will, at a number of times, prompt you to provide proof of home insurance. This typically happens when:

  1. Your first purchase your home; this will be done through your title company.
  2. At the annual renewal; however most homeowners policies automatically send the lender a copy of the renewal.
  3. When you refinance and there is a new lender, this is done by the title company.
  4. When a policy is cancelled, either at the renewal or for non-payment.

When you get a request, you should always forward the request, along with any instructions, to your homeowners insurance agent. If a title company is involved, you should always provide your agency information, phone number, fax and email address to the title company. If you are purchasing a new home, you should always contact your broker at least 3 weeks prior to make arrangements for a policy and notify your title company as soon as you can. Getting the request to your agency right away will allow for fewer problems and a quick resolution to complying with your homeowners insurance requirements.

Should there be any gap in your homeowners insurance, the mortgage company will force place coverage on your home and have the right to do this since it is in the mortgage agreement. This forced placed coverage is usually very expensive and more likely than not will protect the mortgagee’s interests, not your interests. The bottom line is, the coverages are probably very basic, will probably not protect you to the degree a regular homeowners policy would protect you and probably does not include liability insurance. The reason why these policy premiums are very expensive is the policy is not underwritten, and because of this there may be an assumption that you cannot get coverage on your own and that your property may be high risk.

To avoid this expensive forced placed coverage, attend to your lenders homeowners insurance requirement right away. Even if you have a three-day gap in your homeowners insurance, they can still come back and charge you for those three days, and it’s not cheap. Your agent is here to help you avoid things like this from happening. Maintaining good communication, either via email or phone, is the key for things to go as smoothly as possible.

Will Your Insurance Cover That Water Spot on Your Ceiling?

Most people who buy homeowner’s insurance tend to think about protecting themselves from financial loss should the house burn down. A much more common cause of damage to homes, though, is water. Leaky roofs, broken pipes, and blocked drains can produce a mess that is expensive and difficult to clean up and repair. However, insurance coverage for these losses is not always certain.

The standard homeowner’s policy may cover rain damage, depending on how rain enters the home. If a storm damages the roof or a window and allows rainwater to enter, the policy should cover the cost of repairing the damage. However, if the roof has no apparent damage but instead has suffered normal wear and tear, the policy will not cover the loss.

The policy will normally cover damage caused by water leaking from pipes, with some restrictions. If a pipe breaks and floods a few rooms, the policy will cover the cost of repairs to the rooms but not the cost of replacing the pipe. However, the policy will not cover the damage caused by a burst frozen pipe unless the homeowner has used reasonable care to either maintain heat in the building or shut off the water supply and drain the pipes and appliances of water. People who leave for warmer climates during the winter must make sure these steps are taken.

One lesson that many people learn the hard way is that homeowner’s policies do not cover damages caused by flooding. The standard policy does not pay for damage caused by floods; water on the surface of the ground; waves; tides; overflows of bodies of water; or water spray whether the wind drives it or not. It also will not pay for damage caused by water or floating debris that backs up into the home through sewers or drains or which overflows or discharges from a sump or sump pump. Finally, it will not cover damage to structures such as driveways, sidewalks or foundations from water pressure under the ground. A flood insurance policy from the National Flood Insurance Program may cover some of these types of losses. Also, many insurance companies may offer a small amount of coverage for damage resulting from sewer, drain or sump backup for an additional premium.

When a water loss occurs, it is very important to stop the water flow and begin the drying process as soon as possible. Broken windows and holes in roofs should be boarded up and water shut off to broken pipes. If the water is allowed to accumulate, mold and mildew may grow in the area. The longer the affected area remains wet, the longer and more expensive the repairs will be.

A good restoration contractor can help contain the damage and speed up the repairs. He can perform emergency work, such as removing carpets, installing fans and dehumidifiers, and vacuuming up the water. He will also protect furniture by setting it on blocks so that the legs are above the water. Because the wet carpet pad may produce a foul odor, the contractor will remove and dispose of it and replace it with a new one. This may save the carpet, thus holding down the total repair cost.

Homeowners who suffer water-related losses should work closely with their insurance agents and companies. Cooperation with the company may result in a fairer settlement; the agent can be the homeowner’s advocate with the company. Most importantly, the homeowner should act quickly to limit the damage and protect undamaged property. More than anything else, this will reduce the cost and inconvenience of the loss.

How Much Homeowners Insurance Do You Need?

Because your home is probably the biggest investment you’ll ever make, you’ll want to take measures to safeguard that valuable investment. The best way to protect your home investment is through homeowner’s insurance.

However, you shouldn’t settle for just any policy. The type and amount of insurance you need depends on your specific home, what’s in it and your personal requirements. But how much insurance is enough? Here are a few ways to you determine just how much insurance coverage you need:

Market value may not be enough

While you may be tempted to purchase just enough homeowner’s insurance to cover the market or resale value of your home, this may not be enough. While the market value may be enough coverage for some homeowners, that’s typically not the case.

Your home’s market value is not the same as what’s known as its “replacement cost.” The replacement cost of your home is the amount of money you would need to rebuild your home to its previous condition if a loss were to occur. This amount is different from your home’s market value, purchase price or the outstanding amount of your mortgage loan.

Especially right now, when property values are falling throughout much of the nation, the market value of your home is probably much lower than its replacement value. Therefore, you should not use the market value to determine how much insurance coverage you need.

Calculate the replacement cost

So, how do you figure out the replacement cost of your home? Your homeowner’s insurance company can calculate how much it would cost to rebuild your home based on the following:

  • Square footage of your home
  • Type and quality of your home’s construction
  • Any updates, special features or add-ons to your home
  • Quality and cost of materials used in your home

Read the fine print

Before you purchase a policy, read all the fine print so you know exactly what the policy covers. Homeowner’s insurance generally covers damages to your home and “other structures” on your property, such as a shed, detached garage, gazebo or pool.

In most policies, the amount of insurance coverage you receive for other structures is 10 percent of the amount of coverage you receive on your home. For example, if your insurance policy covers $100,000 on your home, the coverage you would receive for your other structures would be $10,000 combined. If you believe that the structures on your property are worth more than 10 percent of your home coverage, you may want to request additional coverage.

Take a look at your personal liability coverage

Most homeowner’s policies also include personal liability and medical expense coverage. Generally, your homeowner’s insurance company will pay up to $100,000 on a legitimate civil claim against you for an injury that occurred on your property.

However, this still may not be enough to cover a major lawsuit. You might consider purchasing a separate personal umbrella liability policy, which can offer additional protection. This type of policy offers a higher level of liability coverage and ensures that you and your family’s assets will be protected if someone sues you for damages. Umbrella policies typically pay up to a predetermined limit, which is usually $1 million, for liability claims made against you and your family.

Protect your valuables

If you have particularly valuable jewelry, artwork or collectibles in your home, you may want to opt for even more homeowner’s insurance coverage for additional protection. You may assume your valuables are fully covered by your homeowner’s insurance, but that’s not always the case. It all comes down to what’s called the “sublimit”-this is the limit on the amount the insurance company will pay for specific types of personal property. Although your policy’s total personal property limit may be $75,000, the sublimit for jewelry may be as low as $1,500.

Read through your contract and find your policy’s sublimit for artwork, jewelry and collectibles. If your valuables are worth more than the sublimit, you may want to purchase additional insurance to cover them. You can purchase what’s called a “floater” and have this worked into your homeowner’s policy. Insurance floaters typically cover one specific item, so if you have multiple valuables, you may need to purchase floaters for each item you want to insure.

Talk to a professional

Discuss your unique homeowner’s insurance needs with your insurance agent. He or she can help you determine what kind of policy will best fit your needs and whether or not you may require additional coverage.