Homeowners & Renters Insurance

Note: This information was developed to provide consumers with general information and guidance about insurance coverages and laws. It is not intended to provide a formal, definitive description or interpretation of Department policy. For specific Department policy on any issue, regulated entities (insurance industry) and interested parties should contact the Department.

Listed below are some common homeowners insurance definitions.

Actual Cash Value: Replacement cost less depreciation, considering the age and condition of your property.

Additional Living Expenses: Pays expenses over and above your normal living costs (motel rooms, restaurant meals, and laundry service) while your home is being repaired or rebuilt after damage from an insured loss.

Agent: A representative who sells insurance for one or more companies.

Application: A signed request for insurance, giving information about the prospective policyholder

Appraisal: An evaluation of your property.

Binder: A temporary or preliminary agreement, which provides coverage until a policy can be written or delivered.

Broker: A licensed person or organization you can pay to shop for insurance on your behalf.

Builders Risk: Coverage for a home under construction. Claim payments are based on the percentage completed at time of loss. This coverage must be changed to a homeowners policy upon completion of the building.

Cancellation: Termination of a policy before its normal expiration date.

Claim: Your request for the insurance company to pay you an amount under the terms of your policy.

Claims Adjuster: A person an insurance company hires to settle claims. The adjuster could either be a company employee or under contract with the company.

Coinsurance Clause: An agreement with the insurance company in which you agree to carry insurance on your property in an amount equal to a certain percentage of its actual cash value.

Covered Expenses: The losses or conditions the policy will pay for.

Deductible: The dollar amount you must pay out-of-pocket for each claim before the insurance company begins paying.

Depreciation: Decrease in home or property value due to age or wear and tear.

Earthquake Insurance: A type of catastrophic coverage available for an additional premium to repair or replace your property/personal belongings when damaged by an earthquake. Standard home insurance policies do not cover earthquake insurance.

Endorsement: Amendment to the policy used to add, change, or delete coverage. Also referred to as a "rider."

Exclusions: Specific situations or circumstances listed in your policy describing when benefits will not be paid. Typical homeowners insurance exclusions are earthquake, sewer backup/sump pump failure, ordinance or law, and intentional loss.

Floater: Additional coverage for personal property such as jewelry, artwork, or antiques not otherwise included in the homeowners policy, or included for a nominal coverage amount. The coverage "floats" or moves with the property. Also called "Scheduled Personal Property Endorsement."

Flood Insurance: A type of catastrophic coverage available for an additional premium to repair or replace your property/personal belongings when damaged by rising water. Standard home insurance policies do not cover flood insurance. If your property is located on a flood plain, your lender may require you to purchase flood insurance.

Full Replacement Policy: A homeowners policy that pays the full replacement cost (up to the policy maximum) to repair or restore damaged property.

Guaranteed Replacement Cost Coverage: Endorsement that lets you replace your home without subtracting for depreciation, even if it costs more than the policy limit. Most companies limit the guaranteed replacement cost to 125%.

HO Forms: Homeowners insurance polices are sometimes referred to by the kind of form used and the specific perils they cover. Examples are HO2, HO3, HO4, HO5, HO6, and HO8.

Home Inventory: A detailed list of personal possessions and any information (including pictures or videos) that could help identify lost or destroyed items.

Illinois FAIR (Fair Access to Insurance Requirements) Plan: A not-for-profit property insurance association that offers insurance to individuals who have been refused coverage by at least three insurance companies.

Illinois Insurance Guaranty Fund: A fund that pays an insurer's claims when the company is insolvent. All Illinois-licensed insurance companies belong to the Illinois Guaranty Fund.

Inflation Guard Endorsement: A special endorsement that increases the face amount of a homeowners policy on a regular basis to compensate for the increasing costs of home construction.

Inspection Report: A report filed by an individual employed by the insurance company or credit agency, giving general information on the physical condition of the property.

Insured: The policyholder or person(s) protected in case of a loss/claim.

Insurer: The insurance company.

Lapsed Policy: A policy that has terminated for non-payment of premiums.

Liability Coverage: Insurance protection that pays for claims or judgments brought against the insured.

Market Value: A real estate term for the current value of your home if you were to sell it. Market value includes the price of land, and is not generally used when settling insurance claims.

Mine Subsidence Insurance: Pays when an underground mine shifts, causing damage to your property. Insurance companies must offer mine subsidence insurance in counties where mines are under one percent or more of the land. Underground mines are common in central and southern Illinois, but other areas of the state may be affected as well. You must sign a rejection form to remove this coverage if you live in a county where mine subsidence insurance is required.

Non-Bound Application: There is no coverage involved and you pay no money. The insurance agent submits the application to the company to find out whether or not you will be accepted.

Non-renewal: A notice of the insurance company’s refusal to renew your policy prior to the end of the policy term.

Peril: Event causing damage to your property (for example: fire, tornado, theft, or vandalism).

Personal Property: Personal belongings such as furniture, appliances, clothes, jewelry, and bicycles.

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): Insurance that provides financial protection to your lender if you default on your mortgage payment. By purchasing PMI, a homebuyer may be able to obtain a mortgage with little or no down payment.

Policy: The contract form issued by the company to explain the coverage provided. It is a legal document.

Premium: The price charged for insurance.

Public Adjuster: A person you can hire to help settle a claim with an insurance company. A public adjuster may be hired to handle a complex or difficult loss negotiation. Generally, the public adjuster receives a percentage of the settlement reached. In Illinois, a public adjuster must be licensed with the Department of Insurance.

Real Property: Property considered to be immovable, such as land and things affixed to it.

Replacement Cost: A determination of the cost to replace contents, rebuild your home, or repair damages with materials of like kind and quality, without subtracting for depreciation.

Settlement: After negotiating, the amount you accept from the insurance company as full payment for your loss.

Sewer Back-up and Sump Pump Overflow Coverage: Coverage available for an additional premium to your homeowners insurance policy that pays for damage to your finished basement caused by water or waterborne material which backs up through a sewer, drain or overflow or is discharged from a sump pump overflow. Water seepage is not covered.

Title Insurance: Protection against any defect in the title to your property. Title insurance can be paid for by either the buyer or seller and is usually paid for when the home is purchased.

Umbrella Liability Insurance: A policy that "floats" above your other coverage. You must carry a certain amount of underlying liability coverage before you may buy an umbrella policy. This coverage kicks in if you are sued for an amount greater than the limits of your homeowners policy.

Watercraft Endorsement: Applies to small motorboats and sailboats and broadens your personal liability and medical payments coverage on them. If your watercraft exceeds a specified length, you will need a separate boat owners or yacht policy.

• Home Inventory Work Sheets
• Quick Guide — Home Inventory Android App
• Quick Guide — Home Inventory iPhone App

If your homeowner's insurance company terminates your policy without your permission, your company has certain duties and you have certain rights. A company may terminate a policy without your permission in three ways:

1. rescission - when the company voids your policy back to the beginning. There is no coverage at all and the company will return the money you paid;
2. cancellation - when the company terminates your policy before the expiration date;
3. nonrenewal - when the company terminates your policy at the expiration date.

A company's duties and your rights differ depending on whether your policy is rescinded, canceled or nonrenewed. This fact sheet explains what happens when your policy is being canceled before its expiration date.

Reason for Cancellation

During the first 60 days of a new policy, your company may cancel for almost any reason. Illinois law allows companies 60 days to look at your risk and decide whether they want to issue you a policy.

If a check, credit card charge, or money order given for the initial premium payment is not processed due to insufficient funds, the new policy may be considered null and void and cancellation provisions will not apply. After your new policy has been in force more than 60 days, or if you have a renewal policy, your company may only cancel you for one of the following reasons:

• if you fail to pay the premium by the due date;
• if you obtained the policy through misrepresentation or fraud; or
• if there is an increase in the risk originally accepted.

If the company cancels your policy because the property condition has declined and it believes the risk originally accepted has increased, the company must allow you time (not more than 90 days) to make required repairs.

Effective January 1, 2003, an insurer is prohibited from canceling your homeowners policy solely on the basis that one or more claims have been made against any policy during the preceding 60 months for a loss that is the result of a hate crime committed against the person or property insured if the insured provides evidence to the insurer that the act causing the loss is identified as a hate crime on a police report.

Notice

The company must send you a written notice explaining why it is canceling your policy. The notice must also explain two important items:

1. You have the right to appeal the cancellation as explained below under Hearing Rights.
2. You may be eligible to buy insurance from the Illinois FAIR Plan Association if you cannot find coverage elsewhere.

Mailing Time

The company must mail a cancellation notice to you at your last known mailing address, so it is important for you to notify your insurance agent or company if you move. The company must mail your cancellation notice:

• at least 10 days before the cancellation date for nonpayment of premium;
• at least 30 days before the cancellation date for all other reasons.

The company must keep proof that it mailed your notice, but it does not have to show proof that you received it.

Hearing Rights

If you believe your company failed to follow the required steps when it canceled your policy, you may appeal the cancellation to the Director of Insurance. To do so, you must:

• have been canceled for a reason other than nonpayment of premium;
• mail or deliver your written request for a hearing to the Department of Insuranceat least 20 days before the cancellation date, explaining in detail why you believe the company has improperly canceled your policy.

If your hearing is granted, we will send you written notice about the time and date of the hearing.

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Note: This information was developed to provide consumers with general information and guidance about insurance coverages and laws. It is not intended to provide a formal, definitive description or interpretation of Department policy. For specific Department policy on any issue, regulated entities (insurance industry) and interested parties should contact the Department. If your homeowner’s insurance company terminates your policy without your permission, your company has certain duties and you have certain rights. A company may terminate a policy without your permission in three ways:

• rescission - when the company voids your policy back to the beginning. There is no coverage at all and the company will return the money you paid;
• cancellation - when the company terminates your policy before the expiration date;
• nonrenewal - when the company terminates your policy at the expiration date.

A company’s duties and your rights differ depending on whether your policy is rescinded, canceled or nonrenewed. Furthermore, your rights and your insurer’s responsibilities depend upon the nature of the policy, as well as the length for which the policy has been in effect. This fact sheet explains what happens when your private homeowner’s insurance policy is being nonrenewed at its expiration date.

Is My Policy a Private Homeowner’s Policy?

A private homeowner’s policy is sometimes referred to as a “policy of fire and extended coverage insurance.” These policies cover real property that is used principally for residential purposes, usually including a building that houses up to 4 families. Typically, the policies also cover any household or personal property that is commonly used for daily life. If your policy is not for residential purposes, but rather covers a commercial building, the following information may not be applicable.

Why Can My Insurer Nonrenew My Policy?

A company may nonrenew your private homeowner’s policy for different reasons depending upon the duration that your policy has been in force. If your policy has been continuously active less than 5 years, please see Nonrenewal of Private Homeowner’s Insurance Policy Active for Less Than 5 Years.  If your policy has been continuously active for 5 or more years, please see the appropriate section below labeledNonrenewal of Private Homeowner’s Insurance Policy Active for 5 or More Years.

Nonrenewal of Private Homeowner’s Insurance Policy Active for Less Than 5 Years

Reason for Nonrenewal

A company may nonrenew your homeowner’s policy for any reason except age or location of the property, or the age, gender, race, color, ancestry, marital status or occupation of the occupants.

If the company nonrenews your policy because the property condition has declined, the company must allow you time (not more than 90 days) to make required repairs.

A company is prohibited from nonrenewing your homewowner's policy based solely on credit report information. If credit information from your credit report is used to nonrenew your insurance policy, the insurer must provide you with the name of the national credit bureau that supplied the information so that you can get a free copy of your credit report. For more information about credit scoring, see our fact sheet entitled Understanding How Insurers Use Credit Information.

Effective January 1, 2003, an insurer is prohibited from nonrenewing your homeowner’s policy solely on the basis that one or more claims have been made against any policy during the preceding 60 months for a loss that is the result of a hate crime committed against the person or property insured if the insured provides evidence to the insurer that the act causing the loss is identified as a hate crime on a police report.

Notice

The company must send you a written notice explaining why it is nonrenewing your policy. The notice must clearly articulate the specific reason(s) for nonrenewal. The company may not simply state “fraud” or “misrepresentation,” but rather provide factual basis for such reason(s). The notice must also explain two important items:

1. You have the right to appeal the nonrenewal as explained below under Hearing Rights.
2. You may be eligible to buy insurance from the Illinois FAIR Plan Association if you cannot find coverage elsewhere.

Note: If your insurer merges or restructures with another company, or if your insurer reclassifies your policy (possibly due to an excess of claims), the company must mail you a notice about the change 60 days prior to a change in your policy.

Mailing Time

The company must mail a nonrenewal notice to you at your last known mailing address, so it is important for you to notify your insurance agent or company if you move. The company must mail your nonrenewal notice:

• At least 30 days before the nonrenewal date if the policy has been in force less than 5 years

The company must keep proofthat it mailed your notice, but it does not have to show proof that you received it.

Hearing Rights

If you believe your company failed to follow the required steps when nonrenewing your policy, you may appeal the nonrenewal to the Director of Insurance. To do so, you must mail or deliver your written request for a hearing to the Department of Insurance at least 20 days before the expiration date, explaining in detail why you believe the company has improperly nonrenewed your policy.

If your hearing is granted, we will send you written notice about the time and date of the hearing.

Nonrenewal of Private Homeowner’s Insurance Policy Active for 5 or More Years

Reason for Nonrenewal

A company may elect to not renew your homeowner’s policy for a limited set of reasons if it provides 30 days written notice, or for nearly any reason if it provides you with 60 days written notice (the limited reasons for 30 days notice are available below).  In either case, your insurer may not nonrenew your policy for reasons of age or location of the property, or the age, gender, race, color, ancestry, marital status or occupation of the occupants.  If the company nonrenews your policy because the property condition has declined, the company must allow you time (not more than 90 days) to make required repairs.

Furthermore, a company is prohibited from nonrenewing your homeowner's policy based solely on credit report information. If credit information from your credit report is used to nonrenew your insurance policy, the insurer must provide you with the name of the national credit bureau that supplied the information so that you can get a free copy of your credit report. For more information about credit scoring, see our fact sheet entitled Understanding How Insurers Use Credit Information.

Effective January 1, 2003, an insurer is prohibited from nonrenewing your homeowner’s policy solely on the basis that one or more claims have been made against any policy during the preceding 60 months for a loss that is the result of a hate crime committed against the person or property insured if the insured provides evidence to the insurer that the act causing the loss is identified as a hate crime on a police report.

30 days written notice

When the company has mailed written notice of nonrenewal of a policy that has been in effect 5 years or more only 30 days before the nonrenewal date, an insurer may only decide to nonrenew your policy for the following reasons:

1. The insured initially obtained the policy through giving misleading or incorrect information to the insurer; or
2. A significant change has occurred such that there is a measurably greater chance an unfortunate event will affect the property. 

For all other reasons, your company must mail you written notice 60 days in advance of nonrenewal.

Notice

The company must send you a written notice explaining why it is nonrenewing your policy. The notice must clearly articulate the specific reason(s) for nonrenewal. The company may not simply state “fraud” or “misrepresentation,” but rather provide factual basis for such reason(s). The notice must also explain two important items:

1. You have the right to appeal the nonrenewal as explained below under Hearing Rights.
2. You may be eligible to buy insurance from the Illinois FAIR Plan Association if you cannot find coverage elsewhere.

Note: If your insurer merges or restructures with another company, or if your insurer reclassifies your policy (possibly due to an excess of claims), the company must mail you a notice about the change 60 days prior to a change in your policy.

Mailing Time

The company must mail a nonrenewal notice to you at your last known mailing address, so it is important for you to notify your insurance agent or company if you move. The company must mail your nonrenewal notice:

• At least 30 days before the nonrenewal date only if the reason for nonrenewal is one of the limited reasons above; or
• For almost any other reason, at least 60 days before the nonrenewal date.

The company must keep proof that it mailed your notice, but it does not have to show proof that you received it.

Hearing Rights

If you believe your company failed to follow the required steps when nonrenewing your policy, you may appeal the nonrenewal to the Director of Insurance. To do so, you must mail or deliver your written request for a hearing to the Department of Insurance at least 20 days before the expiration date, explaining in detail why you believe the company has improperly nonrenewed your policy.

If your hearing is granted, we will send you written notice about the time and date of the hearing.

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Note: This information was developed to provide consumers with general information and guidance about insurance coverages and laws. It is not intended to provide a formal, definitive description or interpretation of Department policy. For specific Department policy on any issue, regulated entities (insurance industry) and interested parties should contact the Department.

Fires and natural disasters are unforeseen and unpredictable, and the recovery process can be overwhelming.  If your property or home was insured you will have to work through your company’s claims process, and you may be approached by an “insurance adjuster” who claims he or she can obtain a more favorable settlement from your insurance company.  You should always be suspicious of any individual offering a service or benefit that sounds or appears “too good to be true” and contact the Department before entering into a contract or formal agreement that raises questions or suspicion.

This fact sheet provides information about public adjusters and answers some frequently asked questions.  For more information please visit insurance.illinois.gov or call the Department toll-free at (866) 445-5364.

What is an adjuster?

There are three types of insurance adjusters:

• A “company adjuster" is an employee of your insurance company. They represent the interest of the insurance company and are paid by the insurance company. They will not charge you a fee.
• An “independent adjuster" is hired on a contract basis by your insurance company to represent the insurance company's interest in the settlement of your claim. They are paid by your insurance company. They will not charge you a fee.
• A “public adjuster" does not work for any insurance company, is not a public employee, and does not work on behalf of the State of Illinois, Department of Insurance, or any other public agency. They work for you to assist in the preparation, presentation and settlement of your claim. You hire a public adjuster by signing a contract agreeing to pay a fee or commission based on a percentage of your settlement, or other method of compensation.

Do I have to hire a public adjuster to deal with my insurance company?

No. Many consumer find that the services offered by public adjusters can be performed, for free, by trained insurance company staff.  You may wish to speak with Department staff before engaging the services of a public adjuster.

Your insurance company also has knowledgeable claim adjusters who are available to assist you with the claim process.

Is a public adjuster’s fee covered in my insurance policy?

No.  Insurance policies do not cover the fees of a public adjuster.

How does a public adjuster get paid?

You must pay for the services provided by a public adjuster.  Typically, public adjuster’s charge a fee equal to a certain percentage of the claim paid by your insurance company.  In other words, after your insurance company settles your insurance claim, the public adjuster could take a percentage of that settlement. 

Are public adjuster fees negotiable?

Yes.  All fees charged by the public adjuster can and should be negotiated.

Who will my insurance company work with after I hire a public adjuster?

Once you sign a contract with a public adjuster, the public adjuster will notify your insurance company, who will then send all correspondence to your public adjuster.  You should ask the public adjuster to routinely update you on the progress of your claim. The insurance proceeds will be sent to you and you must then give the adjuster the fee that you agreed to on the contract with him.

Do I have to sign a contract with a public adjuster?

Yes. Illinois law requires the public adjuster to provide you with a written contract which has been approved by the Director of Insurance.The contract should specify the services the public adjuster will provide for you and any salary, fee, commission, compensation or other consideration he or she will receive for those services. The contract you sign with the public adjuster is binding and can only be canceled by certified mail within 5 business days after the date the contract was signed.

Are there restrictions on when a public adjuster can solicit me?

Yes.  A public adjuster cannot solicit you while a “loss-producing occurrence,” such as a fire, is continuing or while the fire department or its representatives are engaged at your property.  A public adjuster is also prohibited from soliciting your business between the hours of 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.  If a public adjuster approaches you during these times you should report him or her to the Department. 

Are there standards of conduct that a public adjuster must follow?

Yes.  A public adjuster is required to serve with objectivity and complete loyalty for your interests alone and to render to you such information, counsel, and service as will best serve your insurance claim needs and interests.

Does a public adjuster have to be licensed?

Yes.  Illinois law requires public adjusters to be licensed with the Department of Insurance. Contact the Department at (866) 445-5364 to verify that the public adjuster is licensed and in good standing before signing any contract.

Where can I find more information?

Useful information on insurance coverage and how to handle the insurance claims process can be found in the Department’s consumer fact sheet entitled “When Disaster Strikes – What to do After an Insured Homeowners Loss.”  The fact sheet can be found on the Department’s website, insurance.illinois.gov, or by clicking here. 

Trained insurance professionals are also available to assist you for free at the Department of Insurance, which can be reached toll-free at (866) 445-5364.

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Note: This information was developed to provide consumers with general information and guidance about insurance coverages and laws. It is not intended to provide a formal, definitive description or interpretation of Department policy. For specific Department policy on any issue, regulated entities (insurance industry) and interested parties should contact the Department.

Why You Need Insurance

Homeowners insurance is an important purchase for many people. There are two major reasons to buy homeowners insurance:

• To protect your assets.
  • Homeowners insurance covers the structure of your home and your personal property, as well as your personal legal responsibility (or liability) for injuries to others or their property while they're on your property.
• To satisfy your mortgage lender.
  • Most mortgage lenders require you to have insurance as long as you have a mortgage and to list them as the mortgagee on the policy. If you let your insurance lapse, your mortgage lender will likely have your home insured. Compared to a policy you would buy on your own, the premium might be much higher and the coverage will be limited to damage to the structure of your home. The lender can require you to pay this higher premium until you get your own homeowners insurance again.

Coverages in a Homeowners Policy

Most homeowners insurance policies provide a package of coverages. The main types of coverage are described below. Keep in mind that you're covered only if the loss is caused by a peril your policy covers. For example, if your home becomes unlivable due to an earthquake and your homeowners policy doesn't cover earthquakes, your policy won't pay for loss of use of your home. Review your policy for the limits of your coverage.

• Dwelling. Pays for damage to your house and to structures attached to your house. This includes damage to fixtures, such as plumbing, electrical wiring, heating and permanently installed air-conditioning systems.
• Other Structures. Pays for damage to fences, tool sheds, freestanding garages, guest cottages and other structures not attached to your house.
• Personal Property. Reimburses you for the value of your possessions, including furniture, electronics, appliances and clothing, damaged even when they aren't on your property, such as those at an off-site storage locker or with your child at college.
• Loss of Use. Pays some of your additional living expenses while your home is being repaired.
• Personal Liability. Covers your financial loss if you are sued and found legally responsible for injuries or damages to someone else.
• Medical Payments. Pays medical bills for people hurt on your property or hurt by your pets.

Types of Homeowners Policies

To be reimbursed for damage to your property, a covered peril (such as fire, theft or windstorm) must have caused your loss. Which perils your policy covers depends on the type of policy you buy. The most common types of homeowners policies are listed below. All of the policy types except the dwelling fire form cover your dwelling and its contents, as well as personal liability and medical payments. Read Table 1 to learn the specific perils each type of policy covers.

• The Dwelling Fire Form covers only your dwelling. It does not cover your personal property, personal liability or medical payments. It also covers only a few perils. It's the type of policy your mortgage lender will buy for you if you let your homeowners policy lapse. It's also used for vacation homes and when you can't find other coverage.
• The Basic Form insures your property against only the list of perils shown in Table 1.
• The Modified Coverage Form is for older homes, where the cost to rebuild is greater than the market value. It covers the same set of perils as the Basic Form.
• The Broad Form insures your property against the perils shown on Table 1.
• The Special Form is the most popular of all homeowners forms. It insures your property against all perils, except those the policy specifically names as not covered. Perils commonly excluded are flood and earthquake but coverage may be available which will be addressed later the Guide.
• The Tenants Form is for renters. It insures your personal property against all of the perils in the Broad Form.
• The Condominium Unit Owners Form is for owner-occupants of condominium units. It insures your personal property and your walls, floors and ceiling against all of the perils in the Broad Form.

There are other types of insurance for other types of residences. If you own a townhouse, you may insure it through either an individual homeowners policy or an association master policy. If you live in a mobile home that has wheels and doesn't rest on blocks or a permanent foundation, in most states you'll buy a form of automobile insurance. This insurance offers far less coverage than homeowners policies. If your home is on land used for farming or raising livestock, ask about a farmownerspolicy.

The standard homeowners’ insurance policy does not cover flood damage.

What is a flood?

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) defines flood to be a general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of two or more acres of normally dry land area or of two or more adjacent properties (at least one of which is the policyholder's property) from: overflow of inland or tidal waters, unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source, mudflow, or collapse or subsidence of land along the shore of a lake or similar body of water as a result of erosion or undermining caused by waves or currents of water exceeding anticipated cyclical levels

What is flood insurance?

• Flood insurance is a special policy that is federally backed by the NFIP.
• You may buy flood insurance that covers up to $250,000 for flood damage to your home. A standard flood policy will cover structural damage to your home, including damage to your furnace, water heater, air conditioner, floor surfaces (carpeting and tile) and debris clean up.
• For an additional premium, you also may buy flood coverage for up to $100,000 of damage to the contents of your home due to a flood.
• Coverage is available up to $500,000 for non-residential buildings and their contents.

How Can I Buy Flood Insurance?

You can buy NFIP flood insurance directly from your property and casualty insurance agent or insurance company if your community participates in the NFIP. You can find out if your community participates by visiting the following NFIP Web link: http://www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/.

Your insurance agent or insurance company also can confirm whether flood insurance is available to you and what it would cost.

Plan Ahead

It is very important to plan ahead. A flood insurance policy will not go into effect until 30 days after you buy the policy.

Other Things to Know

• According to FEMA, between 20 and 25 percent of flood claims occur in medium or low risk flood areas.
• You can buy flood insurance for your home or business regardless of whether the property is in or out of a floodplain, as long as the property is located in a participating community.
• You can obtain more information about flood insurance at the NFIP Web site at http://www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program/.

Limits of Coverage

Your insurance agent usually will help you decide how much dwelling coverage to buy when you first get homeowners insurance. Your coverage should equal the full replacement cost of your home. Note that replacement cost and market value are not the same. The market value, which includes the price of your land, depends on the real estate market.

You should review your dwelling coverage from time to time to be sure it doesn’t drop below the cost to replace your home. If it drops below 80% of the full replacement cost of your home, your insurance company may reduce the amount that it will pay on a claim.

The limits of your coverage for other structures, for personal property and for loss of use of your home are expressed as percentages of your dwelling limit. The coverage is usually a set percentage (see Table 2). For example, if your dwelling coverage limit is $150,000 and your coverage for personal property is limited to 50% of your dwelling coverage, your coverage for personal property would be $75,000. Check your policy, as coverage limits might be based on percentages different from those in Table 2. You choose your coverage limits for your personal liability and for medical payments.

Deductibles

A deductible is the money you have to pay out-of-pocket on a claim before the policy pays the loss. The deductible applies to coverage for your home and personal property and is paid on each claim. Higher policy deductibles mean lower policy premiums. A policy with a $1,000 deductible will have a lower premium than the same policy with a $500 deductible. In some locations, there are also catastrophe deductibles, which are expressed as a percentage instead of a dollar amount.

Having a higher deductible can be a good way to save money on your homeowners insurance premium and to submit fewer claims. However, be sure you can afford the deductible in case you have a loss.

Optional Coverages

You can add other coverages. Sometimes, you can add coverage by buying an endorsement; other times, you must buy another policy to cover a specific peril or a specific item of property. Some reasons you might want to add coverages are:

• To cover perils most homeowners policies don’t cover. The National Flood Insurance Program writes most flood insurance policies, although some insurance companies also sell it. Many insurance companies sell earthquake insurance as a separate policy or as an endorsement to your homeowners policy. While homeowners policies in most states cover damage caused by windstorm and hail, policies in coastal areas often exclude this coverage, in which case you would need to buy a separate policy to protect from this risk. You might be able to buy endorsements to cover damage caused by mold or by sewer or drain backups and sump pump overflow since most homeowners policies offer limited or no coverage for these types of events.
• To increase your current coverage. Guaranteed replacement cost coverage pays to completely rebuild your home, while a personal property replacement cost endorsement pays to replace your personal property. An inflation guard endorsement raises your dwelling coverage limit annually in line with inflation. Personal umbrella liability insuranceincreases your liability coverage above the level available in a homeowners policy. A scheduled personal property endorsement (or “personal article floater”) covers jewelry, furs, stamps, coins, guns, computers, antiques and other items whose value might be greater than the normal limits in your homeowners policy. An ordinance or law endorsement pays for the extra expense to rebuild your home in compliance with building codes and other ordinances or laws that didn’t exist when your home was originally built.

Business Use of Your Home

While homeowners insurance isn’t designed to cover most business uses of your home, some policies might cover some business uses, at least partially. For example:

• Computers and laptops. If you use your home computer or laptop for business purposes, it’s often covered, but you should check your policy limits. Your laptop might be covered, even if it’s lost, damaged or stolen when it’s away from your home.
• Daycare coverage. Most homeowners policies provide a limited amount of liability coverage if you care for a friend’s children and aren’t paid. But if you’re paid to provide daycare in your home, you must buy more insurance to cover your related liability.

Other Types of Home-Related Insurance

You might hear about other types of insurance, especially when you buy your home. Lenders usually require private mortgage insurance (PMI) if your down payment is less than 20% of the home’s purchase price. PMI protects the lender if you default on your mortgage. The PMI premium is often included in your monthly mortgage payment.

Title insurance protects you and the lender against any monetary loss due to errors in the title. You usually pay for title insurance as a one-time fee when you buy a home.

A home warranty covers the mechanical breakdown of individual parts of a home, such as the electrical and plumbing systems. A warranty doesn’t cover the home’s structure, may or may not cover appliances, ends at a specific point in time (for example, one year) and has exclusions and limitations that you should review. Home warranties might not be regulated as insurance in your state.

How Insurers Determine Your Premium

Many factors affect the premium you pay, including which insurance company you choose. Different insurance companies charge different premiums for similar coverage. Decisions you make about how much insurance coverage to buy also affect your premium. Some of the other things that are likely to affect your premium are:

The characteristics of your home

• The cost to rebuild your home. This is not the same as the purchase price (which includes the cost of the land). Your insurance agent might help you estimate replacement cost using information about your home and its contents.
• Whether your home is made of brick or wood. The premium usually is lower for homes that are primarily brick or masonry than for wood frame homes.
• The distance from your home to a water source or fire department and the quality of your community’s fire protection services.
• The age and condition of your home. The premium often is higher for older homes and homes in poor condition than for newer homes and homes in good condition.
• The claims history of your home and of homes in your area.

Your choices and characteristics

• The coverages you choose, including optional endorsements.
• The deductible you choose.
• Insuring your home and autos with the same insurance company.
• The length of time you’ve been with your current insurance company.
• Your credit history. To access your credit report, the insurance agent might ask you for your Social Security number. In many states, insurers use your credit history as a factor to decide whether to sell you insurance and what price to charge you.
• Your history of filing claims for water damage, fire, theft or liability on homes you’ve owned.

Other characteristics

• Having protection devices in your home, such as smoke detectors, a burglar alarm, a sprinkler system, deadbolts on doors or security devices for windows. Many insurers offer a discount if you have any of these.
• Having a wood furnace or wood stove.
• Having a swimming pool, trampoline or playscape that could cause injuries.
• The types of pets you have. Some insurers won’t insure you if you own certain breeds of dogs.
• Operating a business from your home.

Smart Shopping

Different insurance companies charge different rates for the same coverage. Also, not all insurance companies provide the same level of claims service. Therefore, it makes sense to shop around for the best insurance company for your needs.Insurance companies use one of three methods to sell their products.

• Independent agents represent several companies and can give you several quotes.
• Exclusive agents only sell the products of one insurance company.
• Direct market sales are over the Internet or by mail or telephone.

You can find insurance companies and agents through the phone book, on the Internet and television and by asking friends and neighbors.

Customer service is important to most consumers, particularly when they have a claim. You can get a sense of how well an insurer serves its customers from a complaint index. A complaint index measures how many complaints the Department of Insurance receives relative to the size of the company.

It’s illegal for unlicensed insurers or agents to sell insurance. Business cards aren’t proof that an agent is licensed. If you do business with an unlicensed agent or company, it might not pay your claims or refund your premiums if you cancel your policy. If an unlicensed agent or company contacts you, check with the Department of Insurance immediately, so it can investigate. Your actions may protect someone else from being victimized.

You also want to buy insurance from a company that’s financially sound. You can check the financial health of an insurance company by using ratings from independent ratings agencies such as Standard and Poor’s, A.M. Best and Moody’s.

Getting Premium Quotes

Getting premium quotes is a good way to compare different companies’ prices. But, first you should decide what coverages and policy limits you need. It’s important that you know how much it would cost to rebuild your home. An insurance agent or a contractor might be able to help you estimate the cost to rebuild your home.

When you get quotes, it’s crucial that you ask for the same coverages and limits and give the same information to each agent or company. To give you an accurate quote, the insurance agent or company will usually ask for a description of your house (such as where it’s located, its square footage, when it was built and the type of construction). He or she also might ask about items that increase your insurance needs, such as owning pets and expensive possessions. An agent might visit your home to take a photo or ask you for other information (such as the distance from the nearest fire department and the general condition of your home). Be sure to get rate quotes and key information in writing.

Make sure you ask the insurance agent if you qualify for any discounts. Some insurers offer a discount if you also buy your auto insurance from them or if you disaster-proof your home (for example, add storm shutters), update the home’s electrical or plumbing systems, get a new roof or add home security devices (for example, a burglar alarm).

Also, be sure to find out how much your premium will change if you choose different deductibles.

While you’re getting quotes, you should also ask the agent some of these questions:

• Are the agent and the insurance company licensed by my state insurance department? For how long? (The Illinois Department of Insurance can confirm the answers to these questions.)
• How can I find out the claims history of the home before I buy it? The claims history of the home might affect your premium.
• If I submit a claim, how will it affect my premium when I renew the policy?
• How will my credit history affect my premium?
• What does the policy cover? What doesn’t it cover? What are the limits to the coverages?
• How much coverage do I need for my personal property?
• How much liability coverage should I buy?
• Should I buy flood insurance or earthquake coverage? Your homeowners insurance policy doesn’t cover either.
• What types of water damage are not covered? Is mold damage covered?

If you’re thinking of buying a home, you can ask an agent to estimate the cost of insurance.

Your Responsibilities

A homeowners insurance policy is a legal contract. It’s written so that your rights and responsibilities, and those of the insurance company, are clearly stated. You should read your policy and be sure you understand it. If you have questions about your insurance policy, contact your insurance agent or company.

When you buy homeowners insurance, you will receive a policy—not a photocopy. If you don’t receive a policy within 30 days, contact the insurance company, not the agent.

Keep your policy in a safe place and know the name of your insurer. If you still have questions, contact the Illinois Department of Insurance..

Other helpful tips:

• Pay the premium on time. Most insurers don’t offer a grace period for paying the premium; the due date is the due date.
• Keep a file of all paperwork you completed online or received in the mail and signed—as well as any other documents related to your insurance, including the policy, correspondence, copies of advertisements, premium payment receipts, notes of conversations and any claims submitted.
• Make a household inventory.
  • Go through each room; write down and take pictures or videos of everything in the room.
  • Inventory everything, including valuable items such as antiques, electronics, jewelry, collectibles and guns.
  • Store your home inventory in a secure place at another location, such as your workplace, a safe deposit box, a relative’s house or online.
  • Annually review and update your home inventory, including your pictures/videos. Also update your inventory when you buy new items.
  • Keep receipts with your home inventory for all repairs and new items you buy, for proof if you file a claim.
• Maintain your home.
  • A homeowners policy isn’t a maintenance contract; it insures against damage from perils such as fire, wind and hail. It doesn’t pay to repair items that simply wear out, like rotted porch railings. You’re responsible for the upkeep of your home, such as repairing your roof when it begins to leak or cleaning your chimney flue so it doesn’t catch fire.

Filing a Claim

Read your policy—it’s your guide to the types of losses that may or may not be covered. How often you file a claim and the types of claims you file often affect your premium and whether your insurer will renew your policy. If the cost to repair the damage is not much more than your deductible, you might want to pay for the repairs without filing a claim.

To file a claim, contact your insurance agent or company as soon as possible, however, make sure the damage is more than your deductible since any claim whether paid or not is reported to CLUE . Ask about forms or documents you’ll need to support your claim. You’re also required to protect your home from further damage. For example, you might need to board it up or clean up water from a backed-up drain.

The insurance company will assign a claims adjuster to assess the damages and determine the payment. These adjusters may be employees of the company or independent contractors. You should cooperate with the adjuster’s investigation of your claim. The adjuster will probably want to meet with you at your house to inspect the damage. Jot down notes and keep track of the dates of any conversations you have with your insurance agent or adjuster.

If there are disagreements between you, the insurer and the claims adjuster, first try to resolve them with your insurer. Don’t feel rushed or pushed to agree with something you aren’t comfortable with. It might help to have your contractor meet with you and the insurance adjuster.

If you and the insurer still disagree about the value of the claim, check your policy for an appraisal clause. Another option is to hire an attorney or a public adjuster.

Public adjusters are not attorneys or government employees. They are freelance adjusters that charge you a fee. They are usually hired by the consumer to help settle a complex or difficult loss negotiation with an insurance company.

Be certain you understand what services the public adjuster will provide, and the fees he/she will charge (usually 10% of your claim.). Illinois law requires public adjusters to be licensed with the Department of Insurance. Contact our Department to verify a public adjuster’s license.

If you have trouble with or questions about your claim, you also may contact the Illinois Department of Insurance for help. The consumer services personnel can help you work with your insurer to resolve disagreements.

Losing Your Insurance

There’s a big difference between an insurance company cancelling your policy and not renewing it.

Cancellation means either you or your insurance company stop the coverage before the policy’s normal expiration date (which is usually 12 months after the policy starts). You can always cancel your policy for any reason. When you’re a new policyholder, your insurance company can cancel your policy for almost any reason within the first 60 days.. After that, it can only cancel you if you don’t pay your premium, if you’ve lied on your application or if your risk has changed substantially.

If your insurance company cancels your policy, it must give you 30 days notice and any refund shall be on a pro rata basis. If you cancel your policy, the company shall refund any premium on a short rate basis.

Non-renewal means the company refuses to renew your policy after it expires. Insurance companies generally have the right to not renew your policy. If your company chooses not to renew your policy, it must give you 30 days notice. All notices shall provide a specific explanation of the reason(s) for nonrenewal. You also may choose not to renew your policy.

Non-renewals on homeowner’s policies that have been in effect greater than 5 years, must be given 60 days notice.

What to Do if You Can’t Find Insurance

If you cannot find homeowners insurance, talk to your insurance agent about the Illinois FAIR Plan. The FAIR Plan is an association that operates like an insurance company. All property and casualty companies that sell basic property insurance in Illinois fund the plan.

To qualify for coverage with the FAIR Plan, you must have three unsuccessful attempts to buy property coverage from insurance companies and your property must meet basic fire, loss prevention, and safety standards.

The FAIR Plan offers most of the home, personal property, and personal liability coverages that you can get with a private insurance company. However, the FAIR Plan should be your last resort. You may be able to get a better deal with a traditional insurance company.

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