Your home provides a safe space to live. What happens in the case of an emergency that compromises your home? Financially protecting your home can safeguard your space if perils arise.
Dwelling insurance is the part of your homeowners insurance policy offering protection for the structure of the home. This article provides a basic guide to understanding dwelling coverage, policy scope and requirements.
What is dwelling coverage?
If your home structure is damaged, dwelling coverage provides financial compensation. Your insurance policy would offer an estimate of the damages and provide funding for the cost of repairs.
Your home structure includes walls, flooring, roof, foundation and windows. Sometimes dwelling insurance also covers attachments to the home, like a porch, garage, or deck.
How much dwelling coverage do you need if you own a rental property?
Rental property owners need a specific type of dwelling insurance for landlords. These policies generally include:
- Liability coverage if the tenant is injured on the premises.
- Financial compensation for standard damages to property structure.
- Coverage for personal items being used by the tenant.
Tenants should have renter’s insurance as well, as landlord's dwelling insurance won’t cover their personal items.
Is dwelling coverage required?
Dwelling coverage isn’t a requirement. However, most mortgage lenders do require dwelling insurance if you’re financing your home through them. Not only does it protect homeowners, it protects the lender’s investment.
About the Author
Jodie Franklin
I love helping people find their dream home or sell their house in order to achieve their next goals. I have been working hard for my clients for over 18 years throughout southeast Michigan. I have experienced every kind of transaction there is.
Helping my community and being involved is extremely important to me. I am Past President of the Michigan Ability Partners board, which helps Veterans and people with disabilities reach independent, self-supported, and satisfying lives. I have also been a member of the City of Milan Tax Review Board and Zoning Board, and involved in Milan Main Street. I have been a major sponsor of events for Michigan Ability Partners, Aid in Milan, Milan Main Street, and many more organizations that work to make our communities better.
I was 2018 President of the Ann Arbor Area Board of Realtors, Realtor of the year in 2016 for AAABOR and nominee for Michigan Realtor of the Year. I serve on many committees with the local board, state board and was a member of the Housing Opportunity Committee for the National Association of Realtors (2018-19). I am currently serving my second term as a Michigan Realtors Board of Directors.
I have liked in Milan for over 20 years and enjoy living here with my husband Cliff, son Evan, and dog Rosie.