Homeowners insurance protects against many unexpected events, but some types of damage are generally not included. Standard policies typically exclude flood damage, earthquakes, routine wear and tear, damage caused by pests, and issues resulting from lack of maintenance. If you have questions about what’s covered or think you may need additional protection, your insurance agent can help you review your options.

The cost of homeowners insurance depends on several factors, including your home’s age, location, size, construction type, claims history, and deductible. Insurance rates can vary from one homeowner to another, so comparing coverage options is a smart place to start.

Dwelling coverage helps pay to repair or rebuild the physical structure of your home if it’s damaged by a covered loss. This generally includes the roof, walls, floors, and attached structures like a garage. Homeowners in Massachusetts should make sure their dwelling coverage reflects today’s rebuilding costs.

Replacement cost coverage helps pay to repair or replace covered property with new items of similar type and quality after a covered loss, without reducing the payout for depreciation. This coverage can help you restore your home or belongings more closely to their original condition following a covered claim.

Many homeowners insurance policies include coverage for detached structures such as garages, sheds, fences, and gazebos. Coverage limits vary by policy, so it’s important to review your policy to understand what’s protected.

If a covered loss makes your home temporarily uninhabitable, your homeowners’ insurance may help pay for hotel stays, meals, and other extra living expenses while repairs are being completed. This coverage, often called Additional Living Expenses (ALE), can help ease the financial burden after a covered claim.

Yes. Home improvements such as remodeling a kitchen, finishing a basement, or adding extra living space can increase your home’s value and the cost to rebuild it after a covered loss. If you’ve recently completed renovations to your home in Roslindale, it’s a good time to review your homeowners insurance policy with your insurance agent to help ensure your coverage still fits your needs.

Most homeowners’ insurance policies include coverage for personal belongings such as furniture, clothing, electronics, and appliances if they’re damaged by a covered loss. Some valuable items may have coverage limits, so you may want to ask about additional coverage for expensive possessions.

It’s a good idea to review your homeowner’s insurance policy every year or whenever you make significant changes to your home. Updating your coverage after renovations, large purchases, or other life changes can help ensure your policy continues to meet your needs.