homeowners insurance

While a standard homeowners policy helps provide protection for your house, its coverage typically extends to more than the physical structure of your home. From your personal belongings to the shed in your backyard or even medical bills if a guest is injured on your property, a homeowners insurance policy may include coverage for:
 

Your dwelling. If your home and attached structures, like a deck or garage, are damaged by a covered peril, this coverage may help pay for repairs. Other structures. Your policy may help pay for repairs or replacement for detached structures on your property, like a fence or shed, if they are damaged or destroyed by a covered peril. Personal property. This coverage may help pay to replace certain belongings, including furniture and electronics, that are stolen or damaged by a covered loss. You and your family. If you or a family member are found legally responsible for accidentally damaging someone else's property or injuring someone, liability coverage may help pay for related repair costs, legal fees and medical bills. Guests. If a visitor is accidentally injured at your home, your policy's guest medical protection may help pay for their resulting medical bills. Additional living expenses. If you cannot stay in your home after a fire or other covered risk, your homeowners insurance coverage may help pay for temporary increased living costs, such as hotel bills.
 

It's important to keep in mind that all coverage come with limits — the maximum amount your policy will pay out after a covered loss. When selecting your coverage limits, be sure to take into consideration things like the potential cost of rebuilding your home or replacing your belongings in the event that they are damaged or destroyed by a fire or other covered peril.
 

Having a home insurance policy won't prevent damage to your home or belongings, but it may help provide a financial safety net should the unexpected occur. If you have a policy in place, you may be better equipped to weather a storm or crisis — knowing that your homeowners insurance may help cover the cost of damages and get on your feet again.