What does my Homeowners Insurance Cover? How to get paid for damage?

Written By Lance Petrie

Introduction:

Understanding what your homeowners insurance actually covers can be the difference between a smooth recovery and financial disaster. Most policyholders don’t realize their coverage gaps until it’s too late wherein the claim is already underpaid, delayed, or denied. At VIP Adjusting, our mission is to level the playing field. This blog breaks down what your policy may cover, common pitfalls, and how to get paid fully and fairly for your property damage claim.

Key Coverage Areas in a Homeowners Insurance Policy:

Homeowners insurance typically includes several major areas of coverage:

  • Coverage A (Dwelling Coverage): Protects the physical structure of your home

  • Coverage B (Other Structures): Covers detached structures like fences, sheds and garages.

  • Coverage C (Personal Property): Covers furniture, electronics, clothing, etc.

  • Coverage D (Loss of Use): Pays for hotel stays or rentals if your home becomes uninhabitable.

Note: Just because something is listed doesn’t mean it’s covered in all circumstances. Exclusions and caps can apply depending on the peril.

See as follows for a typical insurance policy declarations page listing coverages a, b, c & d.

Description: Snippet from a typical insurance policy declarations page.

Common types of Covered Damage:

  • Water Damage (from pipe bursts or appliance leaks, but not flooding)

  • Wind and Hurricane Damage (subject to deductibles and exclusions)

  • Fire and Smoke Damage

  • Mold (If cause is by a covered peril and subject to mold cap limits)

  • Vandalism or Theft

  • Falling Objects or Tree Damage

  • Hail damage

  • Etc.

Flood damage is almost never covered under a standard homeowners policy. It requires a separate flood insurance policy.

Why you Might not get Paid Enough, Or at All:

  • Policy Language Confusion: Complex wording leads homeowners to misfile or misreport their loss.

  • Lowball Estimates: Insurance adjusters employed directly or by the insurance company often minimize the scope and value of your damage.

  • Unreasonable Denials: Claims may be denied citing wear and tear, maintenance issues, or lack of storm created openings.

  • Improper Documentation: If you don’t provide the right evidence, they won’t pay up.

  • Coverage Caps: Like the $3,000 EMS (Emergency Services) Cap of the $10,000 Mold cap that can gut your claim if not handled properly. Read the following article for more information on EMS caps: Homeowner Insurance Policies and the $3,000 EMS Cap Explained or The 1% Matching Clause Cap

How to Maximize Your Claim Payout:

  • Hire a Public Adjuster Early: From day one, a public adjuster like VIP Adjusting sets the stage for a full compensation.

  • Document Everything: Photos, videos, mitigation invoices, and contractor estimates are key. Also document all correspondence with EVERY ONE.

  • Review your Policy: Know your deductibles, caps and exclusions.

  • Use proper language: Calling a water leak a “flood” can derail your claim.

  • Stay Organized: To reiterate, keep communication logs with the carrier, including every call and email.

When to Call a Public Adjuster:

The best time is immediately after the loss. However, if you are in the middle of a dispute or were denied, it’s never too late. Also, we have another article written about this subject in the following link: When Should You Hire a Public Adjuster

We can:

  • Reopen underpaid or denied claims

  • Represent you in appraisal or mediation

  • Navigate complex policy interpretation

  • Help prevent costly mistakes

Our only job is to serve you, The Policyholder. Unlike the insurance company’s adjuster, we work exclusively for your best interests.

Final Thoughts:

Homeowners insurance is supposed to protect you. However, without proper guidance, it can become another obstacle in your recovery. At VIP Adjusting, we empower you to understand your coverage, document your loss, and fight for every dollar you are owed. Let us handle the insurance company while you focus on restoring your home and peace of mind.

Contact VIP Adjusting Today:

If you have experienced property damage and want to ensure your claim is handled properly, reach out to our team!

Call: 833-WITH-VIP (833-948-4847)

Email: info@vipadjusting.com

Website: VIP Adjusting

Other articles of interest:

Homeowner Insurance Policies and the $3,000 EMS Cap Explained

When Should I Hire a Public Adjuster?

Hurricane Damaged Roofs and the 1% Matching Clauses: What Property Managers Need to Know

Lance Petrie
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HOMEOWNER Insurance Policies and the $3,000 EMS Cap Explained