Best Homeowners Insurance Agencies in Mountain View

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.
  

• In Mountain View, does a standard homeowners' insurance policy cover damages like fire and water resulting from earthquakes?

  Yes, in Mountain View, standard home insurance policies typically cover fire and water damage stemming from earthquakes. However, direct earthquake damage requires separate coverage from private insurers, not the government. Notably, cars in Mountain View obtain earthquake damage protection through comprehensive insurance, which safeguards against events like floods, hurricanes, and theft.

• In Mountain View, does standard homeowners' insurance cover water damage due to floods?

  In Mountain View, while water damage is a common covered loss, standard homeowners' insurance doesn't cover flood-related issues. Homeowners should buy flood insurance for that. Residents must routinely check sinks, showers, and appliances for leaks to minimize potential water damage. Using a water leak detection device can be beneficial as these gadgets can send alerts to mobile phones about leaks. Some can even automatically halt the main water supply when a leak arises.

• After property loss in Mountain View, what steps should homeowners take for temporary repairs?

  After a property loss in Mountain View, it's crucial to make temporary fixes to prevent more damage. Secure areas like roofs, walls, and windows using plastic or plywood. While homeowners' insurance might not cover extra damage if you haven't protected your property, always prioritize safety. Insurers typically cover reasonable repair costs; just keep material receipts. Note that these repair expenses count toward your total loss settlement, and extensive permanent repairs should wait until after the adjuster's assessment.

• In Mountain View, who handles debris removal after a home disaster?

  In Mountain View, homeowners are responsible for clearing debris. While insurance policies differ, those adequately insured will find debris removal expenses included. It's advised to consult the local government after significant natural calamities to discover coordinated cleanup efforts. Additionally, a homeowner should ensure professionals handle soil tests at sensible costs. Interestingly, some policies offer extended debris removal coverage, exceeding the dwelling's primary coverage. Policy specifics demand careful scrutiny.

• What should a homeowner in Mountain View do if their property is damaged by a landslide or other earth movement and the insurance claim is denied?

  For Mountain View homeowners facing property damage from landslides or earth movements, if their insurance denies the claim citing an earth movement exclusion, it's crucial to investigate the root cause. If evidence suggests a covered incident triggered the land movement and served as the primary contributing factor to the damage, they might have grounds to argue for insurance coverage. It's vital to assess all angles before accepting the claim's denial.

• 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.