Property Insurance Topics
Click any topic below for detailed guidance on handling your specific type of property damage claim.
Water Damage Claims
Pipes, Leaks & FloodingFrom burst pipes to appliance leaks, water damage is the most common homeowners claim. Learn what is covered and what is not.
- Sudden vs. gradual damage
- Flood exclusions explained
- Mold coverage issues
- Emergency mitigation steps
Fire & Smoke Damage
House Fires & Smoke ClaimsFire claims involve dwelling damage, personal property, additional living expenses, and smoke damage to belongings throughout your home.
- Total loss vs. partial damage
- Smoke & soot coverage
- ALE (temporary housing)
- Contents inventory tips
Storm, Wind & Hail Claims
Weather-Related DamageSevere weather can damage roofs, siding, windows, and more. Understanding your policy's wind/hail coverage is critical.
- Roof damage assessment
- Wind vs. hail deductibles
- Cosmetic damage exclusions
- Tree fall coverage
Mold Coverage Disputes
Mold Claims & ExclusionsMold coverage is heavily limited in most policies. Learn when mold is covered and how to maximize your claim.
- Mold caps and sublimits
- Covered vs. excluded causes
- Remediation requirements
- Health-related claims
Theft & Burglary Claims
Stolen Property CoverageWhen thieves strike, your homeowners policy covers stolen items - but special limits apply to jewelry, electronics, and cash.
- Special limits on valuables
- Documentation requirements
- Police report necessity
- Off-premises theft coverage
California Wildfire Claims
CA-Specific GuidanceCalifornia wildfires present unique challenges. Special state regulations protect policyholders with enhanced coverage requirements.
- Extended replacement cost
- CA wildfire moratoriums
- Evacuation coverage
- FAIR Plan options
California Property Insurance Protections
CACalifornia provides enhanced protections for homeowners insurance claims under the Fair Claims Settlement Practices Regulations (Cal. Code Regs. tit. 10, Section 2695.1 et seq.). Key California-specific rules include:
- Extended Replacement Cost: Many California policies include coverage beyond policy limits if rebuilding costs exceed estimates
- 40-Day Claim Response: Insurers must accept or deny claims within 40 days of receiving proof of loss
- Wildfire Moratorium: Insurers cannot cancel policies in areas affected by declared emergencies for one year
- Contents Inventory: California law limits what insurers can require for contents documentation
- Department of Insurance: File complaints at insurance.ca.gov for violations
Understanding Your Homeowners Policy
Standard homeowners insurance (HO-3 policies) covers your dwelling and personal property against a wide range of perils. However, coverage varies significantly depending on the cause of damage. Here is what you need to know:
Covered Perils (Open Perils on Dwelling): Your dwelling is typically covered against all risks except those specifically excluded. Common covered perils include fire, lightning, windstorm, hail, explosion, riot, aircraft, vehicles, smoke, vandalism, theft, and falling objects.
Named Perils on Contents: Personal property may only be covered for specifically listed perils. Check your policy declarations for the exact coverage.
Common Exclusions: Most homeowners policies exclude flood, earthquake, mold (beyond certain limits), gradual damage, neglect, and intentional damage. Understanding these exclusions before filing a claim is essential.
Related Insurance Resources
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