8 Surprising Things Your Homeowner’s Policy May Cover

We usually think of “fine print” as a bad thing, but sometimes there’s good stuff there. The typical homeowner’s policy may include coverage you didn’t know you had. Here are 8 things included in most policies that you may be unaware of. Be sure, though, to check with your agent for information about your policy.

8 Surprising Things Your Homeowner’s Policy May Cover

• If you hit someone while riding your bike – even if you’re away from your home – your homeowner’s policy will probably cover that.
• Usually your homeowner’s policy will cover damage to a grave marker, even if the cemetery is miles away.
• If you’re sued for slander (“a malicious, false or defamatory statement”) or libel (“defamation by written or printed words”), the liability coverage in the typical homeowner’s policy will cover that.
• If you’re a dog lover, you’ll be happy to know that the typical homeowner’s policy covers dog bites, generally with limits of $100,000 to $300, 000. That’s good news: according to the Insurance Information Institute, the average cost of a dog-bite claim is over $25,000. There may be exclusions for certain breeds that are known for aggressive behavior and account for a large share of injuries. Some communities are requiring liability for certain breeds. As always, check with your agent.
• Personal property coverage included in homeowner’s policies also covers college students who live on campus. Most of their personal possessions are automatically covered by the parents’ homeowner’s policy.
• Since nearly 10% of Americans currently rent a storage unit (according to the Self-Storage Association), it’s good to know that you’ll have protection there, too, for losses from fire and theft. Check your policy, of course, but typically off-premises coverage is limited to 10% of the policy limits. Be aware that flooding, earthquakes, and damage from mold and mildew may not be included. (Bankrate.com)
• Things dropping out of the sky….you’re covered there, too.
• And finally, skunk odor is covered. If some wild critter gets into your house and causes damage, that’s an insurance claim.