Which Area Is Not Protected by Most Homeowners Insurance?

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Key Takeaways

You’ve made a big investment in your home, so understanding which area is not protected by most homeowners insurance can help you determine if you need additional coverages for extra protection.
We’ve compiled information on key damages not covered by home insurance policies, including flooding, earthquakes, home businesses, everyday wear and tear and home neglect.
In some cases, you can purchase a separate insurance policy to get additional coverage. If not offered, there are actionable steps you can take to prevent damage.

5 Things That Are Not Covered by a Standard Homeowners Insurance Policy

Most homeowners insurance policies do not cover damages caused by situations involving:

Floods
Earthquakes
Home businesses
Everyday wear and tear
Home neglect

More Details on What Is Not Protected by Most Homeowners Insurance

When it comes to homeowners insurance, knowing what your policy doesn’t cover is just as important as knowing what it covers. That’s why we’ve detailed five areas not covered by a standard home insurance policy and how you can still get the protection you need to enjoy peace of mind at home.

1. Flood Damage

Although some forms of water damage, like from an accidental pipe burst, are covered by standard homeowners insurance, flood damage is typically not. If you live in an area that’s prone to flooding, you’ll need to purchase a separate flood insurance policy offered through the National Flood Insurance Program to help protect your home.

2. Earth Movements

Natural disasters involving earth movements, such as earthquakes, sinkholes and mudslides —also known as “Acts of God”—are usually not covered by home insurance policies. However, you can add coverage to your homeowners insurance to help protect your home from these situations.

Tip:

Even if your home insurance includes coverage for certain events, like theft, you may still want to purchase more protection for your prized possessions. For example, valuable items blanket provides additional coverage on certain valuables that may be pricey to replace. So, if your insured jewelry or art gets stolen, this coverage helps pay for those items in full.

3. Home Business

As a homeowner, insurance may not include protection for technology or professional equipment that you use to operate a business out of your home. That’s why you’ll need separate home-based business insurance to help protect your business assets in the event of fire, theft or another covered loss.

4. Wear and Tear

Normal wear and tear is typically excluded from standard homeowner insurance coverage. For example, if your home’s plumbing system becomes worn out over time, your home insurance likely won’t pay for damages. However, damages are covered in accidental events, such as burst pipes.

Tip:

Scheduling regular inspections or maintenance checks can help keep your home safe and secure.

5. Home Neglect, Pest Infestation and Mold

Damage caused by poor home maintenance is usually not covered by home insurance, including pest infestation or mold. Preventing critters such as vermin or rodents from taking up residence in your home is considered by most insurance companies to be part of maintenance the homeowner is responsible for. The same goes for safeguarding against mold buildup.

Tip:

If you find mold in your home, The Hartford has preferred contracts with EMS companies and can make referrals for you. EMS professionals specialize in drying out homes and preventing mold, which is essential for safe and thorough recovery. Remediation activities include using industrial fans and dehumidifiers, removing wet flooring or drywall and monitoring moisture levels.

Homeowners Insurance Coverage From The Hartford

Not all home insurance companies are the same. At The Hartford, we offer the only home insurance endorsed by AARP. Get a quote today or call The Hartford at 877-422-2345 for your personal AARP member price.

Frequently Asked Questions About Homeowners Insurance Coverage

What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?

Are you wondering, “What does homeowners insurance cover?” From a tree limb falling on your shed to a kitchen fire, standard home insurance coverages help pay for repairs to your home caused by:

Windstorms, hail and lightning
Fire and smoke damage
Theft and vandalism
Plumbing issues
Freezing of pipes
Weight from snow, sleet or ice

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Wall Damage?

Dwelling insurance coverage helps pay to repair or rebuild the structure of your home and the structures attached to it, including wall damage. It also covers internal systems like wiring and plumbing, plus heating and air conditioning.