Q&A with Chris O’Brien, Sales Manager
Questions? Reach out to one of our knowledgeable insurance agents. We’re eager to set you up with the right coverage and rate!
Most homeowners have insurance, but very few understand what their policy covers until something goes wrong. Knowing what you’re protected against (and what you’re not) can be the difference between a small inconvenience and a major financial setback.
We spoke with Chris O’Brien, Sales Manager, to explain what homeowners need to know about coverage, hidden gaps, and how to make sure their policy works when they need it.
Q: What coverage do homeowners most often overlook?
One of the biggest gaps we see is water damage coverage.
Years ago, water-related losses were automatically included in most homeowners’ policies. Today, many insurance companies have made this coverage optional, even though water damage is one of the most common and expensive claims, especially in homes that are 10–20 years old or older.
There are also important region-specific risks people don’t always think about:
- On the West Coast, earthquake coverage is critical.
- In parts of the Midwest and Tennessee, mine subsidence and sinkhole coverage are important to have.
Many homeowners assume these risks are covered, and they often aren’t.
Q: How can homeowners review and understand their policy?
Your coverage is summarized on your Declaration Page (or “Dec Page”), which lists your limits, deductibles, and major protections.
Your full policy packet explains everything in detail, but it’s often 80 pages or more, which makes it overwhelming. The best approach is to review your policy with an insurance agent who can translate it into plain language and help you spot gaps before they become expensive problems.
Q: Why is understanding coverage so important?
Because you can’t buy protection after a loss happens.
Knowing what you’re covered for allows you to make smart financial decisions about risk. Your home is likely your largest asset, and having the wrong coverage can leave you exposed to costs you never expected.
Bottom Line:
Understanding your insurance coverage before something happens puts you in control. Knowing what’s included, what isn’t, and what risks you’re actually protected from helps you avoid costly surprises and make smarter decisions about your home.
A quick policy review today can save you from major financial stress tomorrow.