Best Homeowners Insurance Agencies in Birmingham

Frequently Asked Questions

• Introduction

  Homeowners' insurance is a type of property insurance used by private property owners to protect their home and property from a range of risks and liabilities. It is also called home insurance.
  

  
  

  All homeowners' insurance policies cover the primary home on a property, meaning that most damage from weather, accidents, vandalism, and other events will be at least partially paid for by the insurance company. Many policies also include coverage for other structures, personal property, and some premises liability.

  
  

  It is not required by law that a homeowner purchases insurance for their property. However, if you have a mortgage, the lender will usually make purchasing a homeowners' policy a mandatory part of the loan process. Since the mortgage lender is essentially selling you the home, they require you to protect the investment.
  

• Is home insurance compulsory in Birmingham?

  Under the laws of Birmingham and the rest of Alabama, residents are not required to insure their homes. However, the case would be different if the home is being paid through a mortgage. In that case, the lending company or agency would usually require their clients to purchase home insurance as one of their conditions for loan approval.

• What is usually included in a home insurance policy in Birmingham?

  Usually, home insurance policies in Birmingham provide these coverages. First is the dwelling coverage, which is financial protection for the house itself, such as the roof and walls, as well as attached structures like a carport or a porch. There is also coverage for the shed, fences, or other detached structures. Lastly, coverage for personal property is also often included, which pays for the repair or replacement costs in case personal items, such as furniture or clothing, are damaged.

• What property types are usually covered by home insurance policies in Birmingham?

  In Birmingham, home insurance agencies usually provide coverage for single- and multi-family properties. Owner-occupied dwellings, or when the owner is also the one residing in the house, are also typically covered by home insurance policies. Condominiums, mobile homes, and manufactured housing are likewise covered. Properties that are typically built for investment properties are often approved for home insurance coverage, too.

• What types of severe weather damage do home insurance policies in Birmingham usually cover?

  Any damage to your home caused by tornadoes or hurricanes is usually covered by home insurance, although there may be adjustments when it comes to wind damage. Most home insurance agencies in Birmingham also provide coverage for hail damage, which is usually evident on your roof. Standard home insurance policies cover damage caused by wildfires and lightning.

• What should a homeowner do after a storm in Birmingham?

  The first thing that a homeowner should do is to document how the property looks like after the disaster for an accurate account of damage when you file a home insurance claim. Make a list of lost and damaged items and take photos and videos if possible. Then, take measures that will prevent further damage to your home. After that, contact your insurance agent or company so the recovery process can be started. Expect that a claims adjuster will assess the damage and explain the details to you.

• What determines the price of homeowners insurance premium?

  The premium, or monthly cost, of your homeowners' insurance policy depends on several factors, including the value of your home and amount of coverage you choose. Your credit history and whether the property is in a higher risk area also play a role.