What about the exterior of my property—how much is covered by my homeowner’s policy?

A standard homeowner’s policy provides protection for personal property and other structures located in and around your home. HO-1, HO-2, and HO-3 are the three standard policy types available for most homes.

HO-1: Covers only the physical structure of your home, including permanently attached additions (such as an attached garage).

HO-2: Covers other structures on the property, including detached garages, fences, pools, driveways and sidewalks. The coverage limit usually is 10 percent of the HO-1 amount.

HO-3: Covers personal property, including household possessions and other items such as outdoor antennas, drapes and flooring. The limit is usually 50 percent of the HO-1 amount.

Standard homeowner’s policies include “additional coverage” for items such as debris removal, trees and shrubs, with each coverage having a stated limit. Items that are not covered include cars, motorcycles, lawn mowers and other motorized vehicles, as well as pets and other animals.