616-916-1325
Grand Rapids, MI
Mon-Fri: 7AM-7PM
Sat: 8AM-3PM
616-916-1325 | Grand Rapids, MI | Mon-Fri: 7AM-7PM & Sat: 8AM-3PM
Do You Need Homeowners Insurance?
Do You Need Homeowners Insurance?
Brigade Home Inspection Services
When it comes time to get home checked out, many homeowners are not prepared for some of the surprises that may be in store. We take care to look out for any minor or major issues. When they are discovered, there are a lot of people that are not prepared to cover the cost of the repair. This can lead to a problematic situation that can quickly spiral out of control. As repairs go unattended, they only get worse, which means costs continue to go up and up.
However, investing in an insurance policy is a great way to make sure you are ready for whatever problems an inspector may discover. A good policy will prepare you for the worst, and give you peace of mind that even if problems are discovered during an inspection, you already have a plan in place to take care of them.
Home Inspections and Insurance
Before insurance providers will insure a home, most will require an in-depth inspection to take place. The detailed reports will give providers an idea of the condition of the home, which is important for risk assessment and determining rates.
While Brigade home inspectors will make sure you have a detailed report on your home's condition, we also want to make sure you have the resources to tend to any issues. Some homeowners may be caught off guard by some of the problems that inspectors discover, but having a good policy means you can quickly take care of the issue without stress.
Inspections can inform providers of the condition of various components of the home, including:
- Roof
- Gutters
- Siding
- Windows
- Doors
- HVAC units
- Plumbing
- Fire alarms
- Chimneys
- Surrounding landscape
- And more
Interior features include:
- Walls
- Ceilings
- Floors
- Basements
- Attics
- Rooms and other living spaces
- Water connections
- Security systems
- And more
What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?
Types of Coverage
Dwelling
Dwelling coverage covers any damage that isn't excluded that has an impact on the living space inside your home. Damage to walls, ceilings, roofs, floors, built-in appliances (furnaces, ie), garages, and outdoor spaces such as porches are also included. Dwelling coverage generally covers the cost to repair or rebuild the afflicted area in your home. Most claims are a result of weather effects, such as wind, hail, or lightning.
While severe disasters leave behind apparent damage, home inspectors may discover other issues that may be covered by your policy.
Personal Property
Any belongings that are not built into the home fall under your "personal property". This generally includes clothes, furniture, washer and dryer appliances, etc. Many homeowners are surprised to hear that this coverage can apply to your belongings wherever they are; the coverage isn't specifically limited to the items when they are inside your home. Personal property claims are often caused by vandalism, theft, falling objects, damage due to power surges, water discharges or plumbing issues, etc.
Loss of Use
In severe cases, your home may have become too damaged to live in. If your home has become uninhabitable, your policy may cover living expenses if the damage is covered by the policy. This coverage is known for including hotel stays, and even restaurant meals in some policies.
Personal Liability
If someone gets injured in your home or their property gets damaged and they decide to file a lawsuit, your policy could cover any legal fees or damages your limit allows. This coverage extends into any issues or damages your pet may have caused to another person or their property.
Is It Required?
Unlike some other forms of insurance, homeowners insurance is actually not required by law. However, to qualify for the most competitive mortgage rates, you will require coverage. Since they are lending you the money to pay off the home, it is in their best interest to make sure you have the funds to pay off the loan and keep the home in good condition throughout your lifetime. Also if anything happens, they want to make sure it can be properly restored without impacting your ability to pay them back.
Benefits of Inspections and Insurance
Better Mortgages
With a highly detailed inspection and a good policy, mortgage lenders can feel more confident in lending you the money you need to move into your dream home.
Protects from Natural Disasters
In the event of a natural disaster, an inspection paired with your insurance coverage will mean that you have the resources you need to get back on your feet. Disasters are extremely stressful and trying times, but both services will make sure every issue is accounted for and addressed.
Peace of Mind
Your house is your biggest investment, and anytime it could be at risk of damage, there will likely be a lot of stress associated with the repair costs. You know you need to stay on top of repairs, but money could be a major issue. Inspections will catch problems before they get worse, and insurance will make sure the repairs are affordable. The end result is preparedness and peace of mind.
Brigade Home Inspection Services
Brigade has nearly a decade of experience inspecting homes throughout the state of Michigan. We see countless homeowners get caught off guard by some of the hazards that we discover, and many of their concerns revolve around how to get them taken care of. We work to look out for the community, and we are advocates of investing in a good insurance policy. With coverage, you will be prepared for whatever life throws at you. To learn more, contact a Brigade specialist today.
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