Home Insurance in Emmaus, PA

Choosing Home Insurance in Emmaus, PA

Surrounded by gorgeous wetlands and only 20 miles from the Delaware River, Emmaus, PA, is a comfortable place for people to call home. With a crime rate that is more than 40% lower than the national average, excellent schools, and homes that average $282,000, it's easy to see why. Of course, even in small cities with low crime and a strong community, it's important to protect your assets with home insurance in Emmaus. 

Deciding Whether To Purchase Insurance

Theoretically, you don't need to purchase home insurance Emmaus because the state of Pennsylvania doesn't legally require it. That is only theoretically, though. If you are still making mortgage payments on your home, your lender probably requires you to carry an insurance policy as well. If you don't purchase your own, the lender may add a more expensive one to the cost of your mortgage. On top of that, repairing a home out of pocket is much more expensive than paying an insurance premium every month. The best option for your home and your wallet is to maintain an active home insurance policy. 

Determining How Much Coverage To Buy

When you purchase home insurance, your company sets a limit on how much it will pay to replace possessions or rebuild your home. It may or may not be enough to meet your needs, but you can typically purchase higher limits for an additional cost. The key is to determine how much coverage you need and purchase more if necessary.

Agencies typically deal in replacement costs and actual cash value for the dwelling. The replacement cost is how much it would take to rebuild your home using a similar material without deducting for depreciation. You might also see the term "actual cash value." This is the replacement cost of your home minus the age and the wear and tear on it. This amount is typically not enough to rebuild your home to its previous state. You'll also need to consider coverage for several other components of your policy.

• Loss of Use –Loss of use coverage is usually 20% of the dwelling coverage amount.
• Medical Payments –Typically, this coverage is only $1,000 per person, so it is a good idea to consider purchasing a higher limit.
• Other Structures –Sheds, fences, garages, and other structures on the property can use up to 10% of the dwelling coverage for repairs.
• Personal Liability –Most policies offer $100,000 with the option of paying for more.
• Personal Property –Personal property is insured at a percentage of the dwelling limit and allows you to choose the replacement cost or actual cash value. If your personal property is damaged or stolen while you're on vacation, you can receive 10% or $1,000 for it, whichever is greater.

Understanding What Your Policy Coverage

Your home insurance Emmaus covers many types of situations, including fire, theft, and some natural disasters. However, it is important to note that several situations aren't covered in your homeowner's policy, which means you'll need to purchase policy add-ons or additional coverage if you want to be fully protected. Common exclusions include damage related to earthquakes, damage because of flooding, and damage related to mold or fungus growth. Typical wear and tear, mechanical breakdowns, and basic damage to walls, roofs, or ceilings also require additional coverage.  

Shopping for Your New Insurance

When shopping for insurance, there are several things you should ask your potential agent about. First, find out specifically what the policy covers and how much coverage is available. You'll also want to consider how much liability insurance is recommended, whether the policy covers any type of water damage, and how submitting a claim impacts the cost of your premium. A reputable agent providing home insurance Emmaus will answer your questions honestly and directly.

This information is intended for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice.