Short answer
Homeowners insurance commonly excludes flood, earth movement, wear and tear, neglect, intentional damage, and some high-value property unless additional coverage is added. Exclusions vary by policy, carrier, endorsements, and underwriting.
What this means
A homeowners policy can be very helpful, but the most expensive surprises often come from what the policy does not cover. Exclusions are usually listed in the policy form, and endorsements can sometimes add back coverage that is missing or limited.
The key is not to assume that every type of damage to the house is covered. A covered loss normally has to fit the policy language, happen during the policy period, and avoid any applicable exclusions or limitations.
- Flood or surface water unless a separate flood policy or eligible endorsement applies
- Earth movement, including earthquake, landslide, or settling in many policies
- Wear and tear, deterioration, faulty maintenance, or gradual damage
- Sewer or drain backup unless the policy includes that endorsement
- Business property or home-based business exposures beyond small policy sublimits
- Jewelry, collectibles, firearms, or other valuables above special limits unless scheduled
Nevada & Colorado note
In Las Vegas and other Nevada communities, flash flooding and sewer backup should be reviewed separately. In Denver and the Colorado Front Range, hail, wildfire, roof settlement provisions, and cosmetic damage limitations deserve close attention.
Coverage can vary by state, carrier, underwriting, endorsements, and policy language. This information is educational and is not legal advice or a guarantee of coverage. Always confirm details with your specific policy and licensed advisor.
What to review
- Coverage limits — dwelling, personal property, loss of use, and liability
- Deductibles — base deductible plus any separate wind, hail, or roof deductible
- Exclusions — what the policy form specifically does not cover
- Endorsements — added or removed coverages that change how a claim is handled
- Renewal changes — premium, limits, deductibles, or carrier rule updates from year to year
Next step
Use the homeowners cheat sheet to walk through your policy on your own, or book a short coverage review with an advisor for a guided look at limits, deductibles, exclusions, and endorsements.