Compare homeowners insurance by coverage, not just by price

Ask every carrier for the same dwelling limit, liability limit, deductible and endorsements, then compare premiums. Also check how roofs and belongings are settled (replacement cost or actual cash value). The quote checklist lists what to match.

No state requires it, but nearly every mortgage lender does, and the lender can buy expensive coverage for you if yours lapses. Owners without a mortgage should still insure against a total loss and liability claims.

Standard policies exclude both. Flood is covered by a separate National Flood Insurance Program or private policy, and earthquake by a separate policy or endorsement where available. Both can have waiting periods and large deductibles.

Rates reflect rebuild costs, weather losses and reinsurance costs across a whole region, not only your history. Rising replacement costs also push your dwelling limit and premium up. Shop at renewal and ask about discounts and a higher deductible.

Replacement cost pays to repair or replace with new materials, while actual cash value subtracts depreciation for age and wear. The difference can be thousands of dollars on a roof or on furniture.

Insure the cost to rebuild the home, not what it would sell for or what you paid. Rebuild cost depends on size, finishes and local labor. Your insurer can provide an estimate, and you can compare it with a contractor's view.

Yes, in most states for permitted reasons, with advance written notice whose length varies by state. If it happens, shop the standard market and consider your state's FAIR Plan or insurer of last resort as a backstop.

Often it can, and claims show up on CLUE reports that other insurers see. Small claims near your deductible are sometimes not worth filing. Ask your agent for a hypothetical discussion without naming your policy, then decide.