Confused About Your Home Insurance Policy in Columbia? Get Answers Here!

If you’re feeling confused about your home insurance policy, you’re not alone. Many Columbia, IL homeowners have questions about what their home insurance policies cover, the types of coverage available, and how increasing local weather risks can impact their policies or premiums.

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about home insurance, provided by the experts at Taake Insurance Agency.

Q1. What Do Illinois Home Insurance Policies Typically Cover?

Standard home insurance policies generally provide financial protection for the interior and exterior of your home, as well as your personal belongings. While coverage specifics, premium amounts, and additional options vary between policyholders and insurance agencies, most Illinois home insurance policies include the following:

  • Dwelling Coverage
  • Detached Structures Coverage
  • Personal Property Coverage
  • Liability Protection
  • Loss of Use Coverage

To ensure your policy meets your needs, consult a trusted local insurance agent who can review your current coverage and help you create a customized home insurance plan.

Q2. Does My Home Insurance Policy Cover Flooding in Columbia?

In most cases, standard home insurance policies do not cover flood-related damages or claims. Homeowners typically need to purchase a separate flood insurance policy to ensure adequate coverage. Review your active home insurance policies or seek assistance from a licensed local insurance agent to learn more about flood coverage options.

Q3. Are Detached Structures Covered by a Comprehensive Home Insurance Policy in Illinois?

Yes, most home insurance policies typically include coverage for detached structures, such as sheds, garages, workshops, gazebos, and other similar structures. However, it’s important to review the terms of your policy to confirm coverage for items like outdoor mailboxes, playhouses, swing sets, and detached outdoor kitchens.

Choosing the right home insurance policy is easier with the support and advice of knowledgeable insurance professionals. Contact the local experts at Taake Insurance Agency to request a policy review or get a home insurance quote today!

You Inherited a House! Does Insurance Come With It?

Unfortunately, your beloved Uncle Jack has passed away. On a brighter note, he left a will stating that you are the beneficiary of his house. However, Uncle Jack’s insurance policy doesn’t automatically transfer to you. You could qualify for a traditional policy if you plan to move in. You have 30 days to decide whether you want to move in, sell, or rent the property. After this period, you will need to secure your own insurance policy.

Four Options to Consider

You have several options. Firstly, you could move in and make it your primary residence. In this case, you will need home insurance. If the house remains unoccupied for 30 days, it becomes an unoccupied property. These properties are at a higher risk of damage and theft, making their insurance quite expensive. Therefore, securing a six-month policy and expediting the property’s sale is advisable. Secondly, if you find a tenant, consider getting landlord insurance, also known as a rental property policy. This could potentially be covered under an umbrella policy. Lastly, if Uncle Jack’s house is ideal, but you don’t wish to live there, you could turn it into a vacation home. However, remember that unoccupied houses carry risks, making their insurance costly.

Taake Insurance Agency: Serving Columbia, IL

If you live in the Columbia, IL, area and need home insurance, please get in touch with Taake Insurance Agency. Our friendly and professional agents will discuss your options and help you find the right policy for your needs.