Question 1

What's the difference between HO-3 and HO-5 policies?

Accepted Answer

HO-3 (special form) is the most common homeowners policy. It covers your dwelling on an open-perils basis (all risks except those specifically excluded) and personal property on a named-perils basis (only listed perils like fire, theft, wind). HO-5 (comprehensive form) covers both dwelling and personal property on an open-perils basis, providing broader coverage for your belongings. HO-5 costs 10-20% more but offers significantly better protection.

Question 2

Does homeowners insurance cover flood damage?

Accepted Answer

No, standard homeowners policies exclude flood damage. You need separate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers. Flood insurance covers rising water from storms, overflowing rivers, and storm surge. Even if you're not in a high-risk flood zone, you can still purchase flood coverage—20-25% of flood claims occur outside high-risk areas. NFIP policies take 30 days to become effective, so don't wait for a storm warning.

Question 3

How much dwelling coverage do I need?

Accepted Answer

Your dwelling coverage should equal the full replacement cost of your home—what it would cost to rebuild at today's construction prices, not your home's market value or purchase price. Market value includes land (which doesn't need insurance), while replacement cost is often higher due to building codes and construction costs. An insurance appraisal or contractor estimate can determine accurate replacement cost. Under-insuring can trigger coinsurance penalties where claims are only partially paid.

Question 4

What is loss of use coverage?

Accepted Answer

Loss of use (also called Additional Living Expenses or ALE) pays for hotel, meals, and other costs if your home is uninhabitable after a covered loss. It typically covers 20-30% of your dwelling coverage—if you have $300,000 dwelling coverage, you'd have $60,000-90,000 for temporary housing. Coverage continues until your home is repaired or you reach the policy limit. This is crucial in Florida where hurricane repairs can take 6-12 months.

Question 5

Are expensive items like jewelry and electronics fully covered?

Accepted Answer

Standard homeowners policies have sub-limits for certain valuables—typically $1,500 for jewelry, $2,500 for electronics, and $2,500 for firearms. If you own expensive items, you need to schedule them (add them specifically to your policy with appraisals) or purchase a personal articles floater. Scheduled items are covered for their full appraised value with no deductible. This is essential for engagement rings, watches, cameras, art, and collectibles.

Expert Protection for the Place You Call Home.

What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?

Dwelling Coverage

Personal Property

Liability Protection

Most Common Homeowners Insurance Claims

Why Choose Atesa for Homeowners Insurance?

Competitive Pricing

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Coverage for All Types of Homes

Single-Family Homes

High-Value & Luxury Estates

Condos & Townhomes

Rental & Investment Properties

Waterfront & Coastal

New Construction & Renovations

Key Homeowners Insurance Coverage Features

Dwelling Coverage

Personal Property Coverage

Liability Protection

Other Structures Coverage

Additional Living Expenses

Medical Payments

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