Compare coverage types, estimate real costs, and understand what home insurance actually protects — before choosing a policy
$1754 avg
National average, 2026 (dwelling coverage)
$500 – $2,500
Most common deductible levels
6 Core
Dwelling through liability
$350,000
Typical dwelling coverage limit
Overview
A policy that protects your home and belongings from damage, theft, and liability — in exchange for an annual premium you pay to your insurer.
A fixed annual or monthly amount you pay to keep your policy active — typically paid yearly, though many insurers offer monthly instalments.
The amount you pay out of pocket before your insurer covers a claim. Common deductibles range from $500 to $2,500 — higher deductibles lower your premium.
After your deductible, your insurer covers the cost to repair or rebuild your home and replace belongings, up to your policy's coverage limits.
Coverage
ACA-compliant plans are required to cover ten essential health benefit categories — here is what that means in practice.
Repairs or rebuilds the structure of your home if damaged by a covered event — fire, wind, hail, or lightning.
Covers detached structures on your property — garages, sheds, fences, and detached carports.
Replaces your belongings, furniture, electronics, clothing, typically covers 50% of your dwelling coverage amount.
Covers legal and medical costs if someone is injured on your property and sues you, or if you accidentally damage someone else's property.
Covers temporary living expenses — hotel, meals — if your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered loss while repairs are made.
Covers minor medical expenses for guests injured on your property, regardless of fault — separate from liability coverage.
Policy Types: H2: HO-1 Through HO-8
Homeowners policies are categorised into standard forms. Most homeowners only need to know four of them — here is what each one means in practice.
Special Form Coverage
Renters Insurance Coverage
Comprehensive Form Coverage
Point of Service
Cost Breakdown
Home insurance premiums vary significantly by state, home value, and coverage level. The figures below reflect national averages for a home insured at $350,000 in dwelling coverage — your actual cost depends on your home's value, location, age, and claims history.
Source: 2026 NAIC and state insurance department rate filings, national averages.
Estimates shown for a single-family home with standard construction. Rates vary significantly by state, home age, roof condition, claims history, and proximity to fire/flood risk. Homes in coastal or wildfire-prone states carry substantially higher premiums.
INTERACTIVE TOOL
Decision Guide
Match your plan to your actual health situation — not just the lowest monthly premium.
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FAQ's
Answers sourced from NAIC, state insurance department, and industry rate data.
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