Your home is likely your largest investment, and a Central Ohio homeowners policy should reflect that. We are real estate investors ourselves, so we look at coverage the way an owner does: rebuilding costs, roof age, water damage, liability and what the fine print really covers.
What's Covered
A standard homeowners policy (HO-3) bundles several protections:
- Dwelling – the structure of your home, including attached garages and built-ins.
- Other structures – fences, sheds and detached garages.
- Personal property – furniture, electronics, clothing and belongings, at home and often while traveling.
- Loss of use – hotel and living costs if a covered loss makes your home unlivable.
- Personal liability – protection if someone is injured on your property or you damage someone else's.
- Medical payments to others – small medical bills for guests, regardless of fault.
Add-Ons
Many costly surprises are not part of the base policy. Ask us about:
- Water backup / sump pump overflow – sewer or drain backup and sump failure are commonly excluded without an endorsement.
- Flood insurance – flood is not covered by homeowners policies; we can help you with NFIP or private flood.
- Scheduled personal property – jewelry, collectibles, firearms and fine art above standard sublimits.
- Service line & equipment breakdown – buried utility lines and mechanical systems.
- Identity theft restoration and other low-cost extras.
Replacement Cost
Replacement cost coverage pays to rebuild with similar materials, not the depreciated value. We review your dwelling limit regularly because construction costs change, and we explain how roof age and wind/hail deductibles can affect a claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is flood damage covered by homeowners insurance?
No. Standard homeowners policies exclude flood. Flood coverage is purchased separately through the National Flood Insurance Program or a private flood carrier.
Does my policy cover sewer or sump pump backup?
Usually only if you add a water backup endorsement. Without it, damage from a backed-up drain or failed sump pump is commonly excluded.
How much dwelling coverage do I need?
Enough to rebuild your home at today's local construction costs, not the market value or what you paid. We can help estimate it and set it up with replacement cost coverage.
Will a home inspection help with insurance?
Yes. Inspection findings on the roof, electrical, plumbing and heating systems influence insurability and pricing, and fixing issues early can prevent surprises. See our article on why home inspections matter.