Homeowners insurance protects against damage to your home and belongings (furniture, appliances, clothing, jewelry) from hazards such as:

• Fire and smoke

• Windstorm or hail

• Theft

• Falling objects (trees, power lines)

• Frozen plumbing

• Water damage caused by plumbing, water heater, appliances, and heating and cooling systems

• Vandalism

Your homeowners policy may also protect you against claims you are liable for someone else injuries or property damage—such as if your dog bites a guest at your home—and may cover you for claims that occur away from your home, such as if your dog bites someone at the dog park.

Some homeowners policies may provide other structures coverage to repair or replace structures on your property that are not attached to your house—such as a garage, shed, or fence.

Your homeowners policy may provide loss of use coverage and pay your additional living expenses (rent, food) if you have to move out of your house while it is being repaired, for example.

You may need a special provision in your homeowners policy (an endorsement) to insure against the loss of expensive jewelry such as engagement and wedding rings, watches, diamond bracelets, etc.

In North Carolina, homeowners insurance is designed to provide financial protection for your home and personal belongings against a variety of risks. Standard policies typically cover damage from fire, smoke, windstorms, hail, theft, falling objects like trees or power lines, frozen plumbing, and water damage from internal sources. Liability coverage is also a standard part of homeowners insurance in NC, protecting you in case someone is injured on your property or if you (or a household member, such as a pet) cause damage to someone else's property, even outside your home. Coverage for other structures on your property, such as detached garages, sheds, or fences, is usually included. Additionally, loss of use coverage can help with living expenses if your home is uninhabitable due to covered damage. For high-value personal items like expensive jewelry, specific endorsements can be added to the policy to ensure adequate coverage. It's important to review your policy and speak with an attorney or insurance agent to understand the specifics of your coverage and any additional endorsements you may need.