Most homeowners feel a sense of relief once they’ve secured an insurance policy, assuming it covers just about anything that might go wrong. However, the truth is that many types of damage fall outside the scope of a standard policy, and not being aware of them can lead to costly surprises. Infinity Insurance Group serving Post Falls, ID, explains.
The Most Common Exclusions
Flooding is one of the most significant gaps in coverage. If heavy rains or rising water from a nearby river enter your home, your standard policy likely won’t cover the damage. To be protected, you’d need separate flood insurance. The same goes for earthquakes and other types of ground movement, like sinkholes. These events are often excluded unless you’ve purchased additional coverage.
Then there are the problems caused by wear and tear. Insurance is meant to cover sudden, accidental damage, not long-term issues. Mold, pest infestations, or damage from slow leaks are usually not covered. If something could have been prevented with routine maintenance, chances are your claim will be denied.
Lesser-Known Gaps to Watch
Standard policies also won’t cover damage from war, nuclear incidents, or government action. While those situations are rare, they’re still listed in many policies as exclusions. Additionally, valuable items such as fine jewelry, rare collectibles, or high-end electronics may not be fully covered unless you’ve scheduled them separately. That means if something happens, your payout could fall short of the item’s true value.
It’s easy to assume your home insurance has you covered no matter what. But policies have limits, and those limits matter. Take time to read the fine print and talk with a licensed agent at Infinity Insurance Group serving Post Falls, ID, who can help you identify gaps. Adjusting your coverage now is a simple step that could make a big difference if disaster ever strikes.