6 Things Outside Your Home Which Are Covered By Homeowners Insurance
Homeowners purchase home insurance to protect their belongings in their homes. But did you know that your homeowners insurance protects a variety of things outside your home too? Here are a few of the surprising things that it can cover, no matter where they are found.
1. What's In Your Car.
Auto insurance covers your vehicles themselves, but homeowners insurance protects the belongings inside. This includes cash, mobile devices, tablets, laptops, jewelry, and even some aftermarket technology that didn't come with the vehicle. Built-in items may fall under either policy, so check with yours to be sure everything is covered.
2. Your Small Boat.
Do you have a small boat, personal watercraft, or trailer for either? Then you may have coverage through your home insurance. These vehicles generally fall under the personal property category of home insurance, although the coverage limits are low. Owners of more expensive watercraft should look into separate policies.
3. Your Kid's Dorm.
A student who temporarily resides elsewhere is usually still considered a part of their parents' household. So their belongings kept in a dorm for the semester may be covered in your overall homeowners policy. However, if the child moves into an apartment or other more permanent living arrangement, they may need their own insurance.
4. The Moving Truck.
When you move, you should keep your homeowners (or renters) insurance in place for the duration of the trip. This is because all those household goods packed into your moving truck, shipping container, or vehicles are still generally insured no matter where they are currently placed.
5. Self-Storage Units.
As with your child's college belongings, your own things placed into self-storage are usually still considered part of your household. Household goods and items in stored cars are personal property. Because a loss in both your home and storage unit is unlikely to happen simultaneously, coverage for what's in the unit might be particularly generous.
6. Your Reputation.
Finally, are you aware that your home insurance may offer protection against accusations of defamation, including slander or libel? This is a benefit that most homeowners may not fully understand, but it can be worth thousands. Your insurer may pay for your legal defense and any court judgments up to the policy limits.
Where to Learn More
Are you surprised to find that you have so much insurance coverage outside your home or property? If so, learn more about how your policy covers everything in your specific situation. Meet with a local homeowners insurance agent today to get started.
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