If you are like most people your home is most likely your most valuable asset.  You home can be both an investment and your sanctuary in a hectic world. If or when your home is damaged or destroyed, it is so important that your home insurance claim is settled by an insurance company that understands the fact that your home is your most important asset.

Prices and coverages can vary depending on which company you choose to purchase your homeowners insurance through. Harbor Insurance Group can help you determine which of several companies we represent will best meet your needs and be able to provide the most valuable combination of tailored homeowner insurance coverage, quality service and fair pricing.

Whether you are renting or own your home insuring the place you call home can really help protect you financially if you suffer a loss due to fire, theft, vandalism, or other covered events.

Depending on where you live in Florida - a house, apartment, or condo – the right home insurance policy can provide you peace of mind as well as the money you need to repair or replace your home and belongings. Having the right homeowners insurance  will also cover you in the event someone is injured while on your property and wins a legal judgment against you.

Florida Home Insurance Policies

Florida homeowner insurance policies differ by which losses are covered, by the coverages that you choose, and the type of residence that you own.

Sometimes it can be difficult to choose which insurance policy is best for you, whether it’s a comprehensive policy that cover losses such as fire, hail, smoke, falling objects, vandalism and theft of personal property, or whether it’s a policy that covers only specified losses.  That is why you should speak with a home owner insurance agent professional.

Types of home insurance coverages

The four types of homeowners insurance coverage are:

• Structural — Covers damage to your home or dwelling.
• Personal Belongings — Covers damage to items in or on your home or dwelling.
• Liability Protection — Covers your legal responsibility for injuries or damage to other people or property.
• Additional Living Expenses — Covers costs for temporary housing, meals, etc., while your home is being restored or rebuilt.

Structural and Personal Belongings coverages are available on an actual cash value (ACV) basis or at full replacement cost. ACV coverage considers the current market value of an item based on its age and condition. So, if you purchased a television for $400 four years ago, the value today would be significantly less than it was when you purchased it. ACV coverage would depreciate the item's value to determine the current value. Full replacement cost considers the current cost to replace an item.

Things you should do

Make an inventory of your home and personal belongings. If possible, make a list as well as take photos or video - using two inventory methods can help expedite the claim resolution process. Keep this list somewhere other than your home. Keep in mind that your homeowners insurance policy doesn't cover damages caused by poor or deferred maintenance on your part.