Home insurance coverages you probably weren’t aware of
Here's a list of coverages covered by many home insurance policies:
Have you had your bag or mobile stolen while on the street? Some policies also include protection outside the home, especially in cases of theft. Make sure you check whether the policy covers only muggings (with violence or intimidation) or also simple theft. Some insurance policies even cover theft from gym or shopping centre lockers.
We’re not just talking about windows: it can also cover shower screens, ceramic hobs, or even solar panels. A minor accident doesn't have to break the bank.
If you’re having problems with your computer, Wi-Fi, or need help with a virus, there are policies that offer remote support. It’s even better if you use your computer for work... or if, simply, technology isn’t your thing.
As well as technical support, some insurance policies offer help setting up devices, recovering deleted files, or even assistance monitoring children’s digital use at home. A great option for families with teenage children.
Who hasn’t left their keys in the door or lost them at some point? Some policies cover the cost of a locksmith and even changing the lock.
An unexpected power cut could lead to an entire week’s shopping going to waste. Well, there are insurance policies that will reimburse you for the cost of those refrigerated foods if they spoil due to a power cut or electricity outage.
Your insurance may include liability coverage in the event your dog, for example, causes damage to a neighbour’s home. It can come in handy and also save you the trouble of taking out pet insurance.
You can count on legal support, for example, if you have a problem with your landlord, a neighbour, or even problems with a renovation.
One of the newest coverages: If you’re a victim of cyberbullying, identity theft, or unwanted dissemination of your personal data, some policies offer services to remove your information from the internet.
Need to assemble furniture, hang shelves, or replace blinds? Some insurance policies come with a handyman service that covers small repairs or household chores that are often left unfinished.
If your personal documents such as your ID or passport are lost of stolen, your insurance could help cover replacement costs and even provide guidance on how to go about the process.
How to know if a home insurance policy covers these?
The best way to know exactly what your home insurance includes is to meticulously go through the contract you signed, in particular the policy’s specific and general terms and conditions. All coverages, grace periods, exclusions, and possible additional services are detailed there.
If you’ve already taken out insurance, you can carefully go through the policy document, consult your insurer’s customer service area, and call or write to your company. If you’re in the process of comparing insurance or thinking of taking out a new one, look at the sections on included coverage and additional options. Ask if there are services with an annual limit or deductible, and make sure you understand which coverages come as standard and which you can add for an additional fee.
And what isn’t covered by home insurance?
Although home insurance offers broad protection, there are certain situations that are generally not covered. The following are some common exclusions:
Or lack of proper maintenance of the installations.
Such as earthquakes or severe floods. They may require additional coverage from the Insurance Compensation Consortium.
They are not covered if they are voluntary cosmetic changes, such as painting walls or refinishing furniture.
Things such as jewellery, artwork, or high-end technology must be specifically declared in the policy to be insured.
Such as consultations or workshops, may not be covered and may require specific insurance.
FAQs
In the event of incidents covered by the policy (such as water damage, fire, etc.), the insurance covers the entire repair, including labour, travel, and materials.
What’s more, if the breakdown or problem isn’t covered by insurance, you can still avail of the services of professionals such as plumbers, electricians, or carpenters. In that case, you would only pay for the necessary labour and materials, with no need to pay travel costs.
As long as you’ve taken out insurance for your home contents or furnishings, the insurance covers electrical damage caused by power surges or short circuits in:
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TVs, refrigerators, washing machines and other electrical appliances.
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Electrical appliances connected to the mains.
However, light bulbs, lamps, and internal repairs of the appliance if it stops working for another reason are not included. If you require more comprehensive protection, you can purchase specific appliance insurance. This way, you'll also be covered against internal breakages and other breakdowns that home insurance alone doesn’t cover.
As you can see, home insurance can offer much more than you’d expect. Knowing the details of your coverage means you can get the most out of it and be prepared for a wide range of unforeseen events. Get informed when you take out your policy and discover everything SegurCaixa Adeslas can do for you.