What are the different types of home owners insurance?

February 10, 2020

Know the basics of homeowner insurance with this simple guide  

No matter if you have owned a home for a decade or are just now settling into your first space, knowing the ins and outs of homeowner’s insurance is super important. Before you are able to make informed choices about the kind of coverage you need, you should know what is standard on all policies.

Standard insurance policies include the following:

Dwelling coverage

This is the basis for all policies and provides protection for the structure of your home. This includes floors, walls, ceilings, appliances, and attached structures. Dwelling coverage also helps protect your home against fire, hail, theft, and vandalism.

Contents coverage

Contents coverage is everything that is inside your home – from your furniture to your clothes and everything in between. If a covered incident occurs, contents coverage will reimburse you for the value of these items. 

Personal liability

The bodily injury, damage is covered under the personal liability umbrella of homeowner’s insurance. This includes costs if a guest in your home sustains some type of injury. 

Remember that dwelling coverage does not cover everything – no matter your specific policy limits. Because of this, it is an excellent idea to customize your particular policy to include coverage for things that might occur in your home. These optional, add-on coverages will change the cost of your policy, but will also help keep you and your loved ones protected, no matter what.

Optional coverage might include any of the following:

Flood insurance

Earthquake insurance

Replacement costs that offer additional coverage to help rebuild after a total loss

Water backup protects against sewer or drain backups

Personal umbrella liability insurance gives you additional policy coverage for bodily injury and property damage

Medical payments coverage will help provide payment for accidents that occur on your property

Other add-on options can include insurance law, which might help update an older home to fit current building codes. Other inclusions into your homeowner policy can cover your roof or specific valuables in your home.

By Arvid Abellera April 17, 2026
Conveniently located near parks, schools, shopping, dining, and easy access to major freeways and BART for a smooth commute. A wonderful opportunity to own in the East Bay!
By Arvid Abellera April 10, 2026
Located in a highly desirable neighborhood, this home provides easy access to major tech hubs, shopping centers, parks, and top-rated schools. Commuters will appreciate the proximity to major highways and public transit, making travel throughout the Bay Area effortless.
San Leandro California showing homes, nearby streets, trees, and surrounding neighborhood layout.
By Arvid Abellera April 7, 2026
Explore how San Leandro CA schools align across neighborhoods and how district structure influences housing decisions.
Open and well organized home layout showing clear flow between rooms and living spaces.
By Arvid Abellera April 6, 2026
Confusing layouts can slow buyer decisions. Clear flow and defined spaces help maintain interest and support stronger engagement throughout the process.
Home listing being reviewed by a buyer who is waiting for the right time to move forward.
By Arvid Abellera April 6, 2026
Buyer timing does not always match listing activity. Staying consistent and prepared helps maintain momentum and supports stronger results when timing aligns.
Tracy California showing homes, nearby streets, trees, and surrounding neighborhood layout.
By Arvid Abellera March 30, 2026
Explore how Tracy CA schools align across neighborhoods and how district structure influences housing decisions.
Home prepared for sale with completed repairs, clean staging, and consistent presentation
By Arvid Abellera March 30, 2026
Homes that feel complete attract stronger interest and smoother sales. Addressing small unfinished details helps maintain confidence and momentum throughout the process.
Cambrian Park San Jose California neighborhood with homes, nearby streets, and tree lined areas.
By Arvid Abellera March 23, 2026
Explore how Cambrian Park CA schools vary by neighborhood and how district alignment influences housing decisions.
Buyer comparing multiple similar real estate listings online.
By Arvid Abellera March 23, 2026
Too many similar listings can slow buyer decisions. Sellers who create clear differentiation and strong presentation maintain momentum and attract stronger interest.
Alum Rock San Jose California showing neighborhoods, nearby streets, and surrounding foothills.
By Arvid Abellera March 23, 2026
Explore Alum Rock CA schools and how early education programs shape academic pathways and neighborhood decisions.
More Posts