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Money Lesson 19 - Home Insurance


For most people, their home is their single most valuable possession - and their biggest investment. Homeowners insurance protects your investment as well as you, the members of your family and your household possessions.

If you were to suddenly lose your home due to fire or a tornado or have the contents damaged or stolen, like most of us, you probably could not afford to replace everything all at once.

All of these situations are covered by the homeowners package policy. While it may be unpleasant to think about fire, theft, and other "uncertainties of life," let's face it, they are there and things happen.

Know your home's value

Before you choose a policy, it is essential to establish your home's replacement cost. A local builder can provide the best estimate.

Homeowners Insurance Coverage

The following coverage definitions should help you understand your homeowners policy--but be sure to consult your insurance company representative to assure that you have the right coverage for your needs.

Dwelling Coverage

The dollar amount carried to cover your home and any structures attached directly to it. Ideally, the amount of coverage you carry should equal the cost of rebuilding your home after a total loss. You need to carry 100% of the best estimated reproduction cost of your home, and a qualified agent will be able to determine that figure.

Other Structures Coverage

The other structures coverage is usually limited to 10% of the dwelling limit. In most cases, this is more than adequate. However, if you have buildings on your premises of unusual or large design, the 10% limit may not be adequate. Please remember that other structures includes fencing. If you have a coach house or garage apartment and rent them out, the other structures coverage does not apply. The other structures limit can be increased by endorsement.

Personal Property Coverage:

This coverage provides worldwide coverage for personal property owned or used by the insured.

Liability/Coverage:

If someone is accidentally injured or dies on or off your property, and it is caused by you, a family member or pet, this coverage pays claims against you for legal responsibility. This coverage must be added to most homeowner's policies for an additional premium.

Others

Homeowners policies have many other optional features available to you depending on your individual needs. These include earthquake and scheduled personal property coverage.
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Money Lessons

  1. Lesson 1 : Setting priorities
  2. Lesson 2 : Making a budget
  3. Lesson 3 : Basics of banking and saving
  4. Lesson 4 : Basics of investing
  5. Lesson 5 : Investing in stocks
  6. Lesson 6 : Investing in mutual funds
  7. Lesson 7 : Investing in bonds
  8. Lesson 8 : Buying a home
  9. Lesson 9 : Controlling debt
  10. Lesson 10 : Employee stock options
  11. Lesson 11 : Saving for college
  12. Lesson 12 : Kids and money
  13. Lesson 13 : Planning for retirement
  14. Lesson 14 : Asset allocation
  15. Lesson 15 : Hiring financial help
  16. Lesson 16 : Health insurance
  17. Lesson 17 : Buying a car
  18. Lesson 18 : Taxes
  19. Lesson 19 : Home insurance
  20. Lesson 20 : Life insurance
  21. Lesson 21 : Estate planning
  22. Lesson 22 : Auto insurance
  23. Lesson 23 : 401(k)s


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