What type of disasters are covered by my homeowners insurance?
Most homeowner policies cover all disasters listed below. Some policies provide coverage only for the first 10 disasters listed. Check your insurance policies for the “perils” covered.
Disasters Not Covered
Floods
You can purchase flood coverage directly from your Aloha Insurance homeowners insurance agent. Flood insurance policies, however, are provided by the Federal Flood Insurance Program.
You can get replacement cost coverage for the structure of your home, but only actual cash value coverage is available for your possessions. There may also be limits on coverage for furniture and other possessions stored in your basement.
Flood insurance is available for renters as well as homeowners. You will need flood insurance if you live in a designated flood zone. But also consider buying it if your house could be flooded by melting snow, an overflowing creek or water running down a steep hill. Don’t wait until the evening news announces a flood season warning to buy a policy. There is a 30-day waiting period before coverage takes effect. Click here for more information about flood insurance.
Earthquakes
Earthquake coverage can be a separate policy or an endorsement to your homeowners or renters policy. Please call your Aloha Insurance Customer Service Representative for more information regarding earthquake coverage.
Hurricanes
While most homeowners insurance covers damages from windstorms, a hurricane is a different matter. Storms named by the World Meteorological Organization with sustained winds in excess of 74 mph are officially hurricanes. Damages resulting from these events are not covered by a standard homeowners insurance policy, but are covered by hurricane insurance that is available. Don’t wait to consider this important coverage. Coverage is difficult to obtain during hurricane season and is not available at all if there is already a storm headed your way.
Maintenance Damage
It is your responsibility to take reasonable precautions to protect your home from damage. Your insurance policy will not cover damage due to lack of maintenance, mold, termite infestation and infestation from other pests.