Most standard policies cover tree damage only if the tree physically strikes a covered structure, like your home, garage, or fence. If a neighbor’s tree falls on your house, your insurance pays the claim. The neighbor is only liable if you can prove they were negligent before the fall. Insurers frequently deny claims by arguing … Read more
Standard homeowners insurance policies almost never cover sewer or drain backups. It is a standard exclusion across the industry. Coverage is only available if you purchased a specific add on called a “Water Backup and Sump Overflow” endorsement. Even if you have the endorsement, limits are often capped at $5,000 or $10,000, which may not … Read more
Standard homeowners insurance is designed for sudden, accidental events, which means predictable issues (like normal wear and tear) and systemic risks (like regional floods) are almost always excluded. Many common homeowner nightmares, such as sewer backups, slow pipe leaks, and foundation settling, fall under standard exclusions, but some can be covered by purchasing specific endorsements. … Read more
Your home insurance claims history is tracked in a database called the CLUE report, which follows you and the property for up to seven years. Even phone calls to your insurer asking about coverage can sometimes be recorded as an “inquiry,” potentially impacting your record even if you never officially file a claim. Claims filed … Read more