Hazard insurance explained

The terms “hazard insurance” and “catastrophe insurance” are frequently used interchangeably. Despite the fact that they both cover large-scale natural disasters, they are technically distinct. Hazard insurance is a portion of a conventional homes insurance policy that protects the structure of the home; catastrophe insurance is a separate, freestanding policy that covers certain sorts of disasters, including man-made disasters, in the insurance market.

Hazard insurance process

Hazard insurance covers damage caused by fires, lightning, hail, wind, snow, or rainstorms, as well as other natural disasters. Hazard coverage is a portion of a homeowners insurance policy that protects the primary residence as well as other neighboring properties like a garage. To be prepared for any eventuality, homeowners should double-check that their insurance coverage covers certain, common hazards.

The needed amount of hazard insurance is determined by the cost of replacing the residence in the event of a total loss. The value of the property on the current real estate market may fluctuate dramatically from this financial number. Typically, policies are written for a year and then renewed.

Hazard insurance and mortgages

It’s usual for your lender to demand you to obtain homeowners insurance if you have or are getting a mortgage on your property. In a strict sense, what they want you to have is hazard coverage, which is the amount of your homeowners insurance that is directly tied to the structure of your home.

The lender’s need is usually satisfied by acquiring a conventional homeowners policy, though the level of protection necessary will vary depending on local laws and other unique concerns. The lender may want more coverage if you own a high-value property in a high-risk location.

Separate hazard insurance policies

Certain natural or weather-related activity is omitted from the hazard coverage of homeowners insurance in some areas—usually because the area is so prone to these disasters that including them in a typical policy would be too expensive for the insurance issuer. A seaside home in Florida, for example, may be vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms, while properties in California near fault lines are at risk of earthquakes.

If a homeowner lives in a high-risk location, they may require a separate hazard insurance policy, such as a flood insurance policy or a policy that protects against sinkholes and landslides.

If you have any other questions regarding Hazard Insurance contact the mortgage experts at 864-397-8500 or click Mortgage Rates Today!