Best Homeowners Insurance Agencies in Springfield

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.
  

• Can being deployed void the homeowners' insurance of a service member in Springfield?

  The homeowner's insurance may be voided if the home is not occupied for 30 to 60 days due to the service member's deployment. Many policies include an occupancy clause, which states that the home must be occupied in order for it to be covered. When purchasing a policy in Springfield, service members should look for one that does not include a vacancy clause. They can also choose to purchase a policy with active duty exemptions.

• What can you do if you believe an insurance company in Springfield failed to properly notify you of a policy's non-renewal?

  Contact the Department of Insurance if you think the insurance company did not follow the appropriate steps to notify you about the non-renewal of your policy. Mail or hand carry your written request for a hearing at least 20 days before your policy's expiration date. Contact the Consumer Services Section at (312) 814-2420 for assistance. The address is as follows: Illinois Department of Insurance Attention: LEGAL 320 W Washington St, 4th Floor Springfield, IL 62767-0001

• Are damage from winter storms covered in homeowners' insurance in Springfield?

  Most of the time, yes. In Springfield, homeowner's insurance typically covers winter-related damages caused by falling trees, frozen pipes, power failure, certain water infiltration, and wind damage. It can also cover losses from ice dams on the roof and other ice and snow-related roof damage. There are a few instances in which damage caused by ice is not covered, and these include ice quakes and ice surges.

• What is the purpose of liability coverage in Springfield home insurance?

  The liability coverage provides financial protection in the event that the insured or household members in Springfield are held legally responsible for bodily injury or property damage. This portion of a homeowner's insurance policy may cover medical expenses, repair costs, and attorney fees. It does not cover losses resulting from intentional acts, the insured's or their household's medical expenses, and in some cases, certain dog bites.

• Can you insure a tiny home in Springfield using traditional insurance products?

  If the tiny house is on your property, your existing homeowner's insurance policy may include coverage for secondary structures as an add-on. However, a tiny home on wheels or separate from your owned lot in Springfield is typically difficult to insure using traditional insurance products. Most likely, you can find a policy on the surplus insurance market. Another option is to obtain an RV or mobile home insurance policy that can be tailored to cover your tiny home whether it is stationary or in motion.

• 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.