Demystifying Your Home Insurance: A Breakdown of the Declarations Page

Home insurance can be confusing - but understanding it starts with one key document: the declarations page. This summary page outlines your coverage, limits, deductibles, and other essential policy details. Knowing how to read it ensures you’re fully informed about your protection and can make confident decisions about your coverage.

Understanding Your Homeowners’ Insurance

Here is a breakdown to help you better understand your home insurance and what each section of your declarations page contains: 

Here’s a simple breakdown of what you’ll find on your declarations page and why each section matters:

• Coverage Period: Lists when your policy begins and ends - found at the top of the page.

• Homeowner Information: Displays your name and property address.

• Coverages, Property, and Liability Limits: Details your covered property and liability protections, including limits and premiums.

• Deductible: The amount you must pay out of pocket before coverage applies. Make sure you can comfortably afford it.

• Policy Premium: The total cost of your insurance, often payable monthly, semiannually, or annually.

• Discounts: Many carriers, like American Integrity, offer discounts for bundling policies (e.g., homeowners and watercraft).

• Options and Endorsements: Additional coverages that expand or limit protection based on your needs. 

Key Coverage Sections Explained

Section I Coverage A: Primary Dwelling 

Protects the physical structure of your home and attached features, like garages, from perils such as fire, windstorm, or vandalism. Coverage may be based on replacement cost or actual cash value, depending on your policy.

Section I Coverage B: Other Structures

Applies to detached buildings or features like sheds, fences, or detached garages. Limits are typically around 10% of your Coverage A amount.

Section I Coverage C: Personal Property

Covers belongings like furniture, clothing, and electronics against covered perils or theft. Consider documenting your possessions to ensure adequate coverage.

Section I Coverage D: Loss of Use

Provides funds for temporary living expenses, such as hotels if your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered loss.

Section II: Liability Coverage
Protects you if you’re legally responsible for someone’s injury or property damage. It generally includes bodily injury and property damage liability coverage.

Get Help Understanding Your Policy

Your declarations page is a roadmap to your home insurance coverage. If anything seems unclear, reach out to your American Integrity agent or a member of our Client Services Team.

We’re happy to review your policy, answer questions, and ensure your coverage fits your needs - so you can rest easy knowing your home is properly protected.