What do you talk about with insurance brokers as you shop around for your homeowner’s policy?

Do you have a fruitful conversation about what your coverage might entail, or do you browse around on your own and try to figure out what the best fit for your situation is? If you’re doing business with the West Texas Insurance Agency, your agent will answer any questions you may have. Here are the three most important questions to ask a broker about your home insurance policy.

1. What Exactly Is Covered In The Event Of total Loss?

If tragedy strikes and you are left with nothing regarding your home and possessions, you would hardly be expected to make sense of what your policy will cover as you get back on your feet. This is why it’s crucial to discuss total loss coverage now, while your home is intact and your policy is new or not yet in effect.

A standard homeowner’s policy will cover damage caused by most disasters except earthquakes and flooding. Those two natural disasters are climate and area-specific. Therefore, they’re not included in a general home insurance policy. You should research if you need additional coverage not covered by a general home insurance policy in Amarillo, TX. 

Your total loss coverage depends mostly on your home’s construction as well as your neighborhood. It may also include your possessions inside of the house, generally valued at up to 50 percent of your total coverage. Every policy is different, though, so it’s worth it to ask about the specifics.

2. What’s My Additional Living Expenses Coverage?

If your home is uninhabitable, you’ll have to live somewhere else. Not everyone is lucky enough to have generous loved ones who will let them room at their house free-of-charge, so most home owner’s policies provide additional living expense (ALE) coverage.

It’s worth knowing how much you’ll be reimbursed for hotels, food, and other expenses in this type of emergency. You should also ask about how this reimbursement is distributed by your insurance company. Do you need to provide receipts for every expense, or are you paid out in advance after disaster strikes? Knowing this will help you budget appropriately in case of emergency.

3. Am I Eligible For Discounts?

Depending on some personal factors or features in your home, you might be up for a lucky break. You can get a discount on your home insurance. Your broker won’t know which discounts you’re eligible for unless you mention that you’d like to explore your options.

For instance, you may qualify for a discount if you have a smart home security system installed. There might be discounts based on age, disability, or veteran status as well. You lose nothing by asking this particular question, while you may gain a good bargain by doing so.

Are you ready to talk to a broker in Amarillo, TX? Contact the West Texas Insurance Agency today to get your questions answered.