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dwelling insurance

Many homeowners may ask themselves “what is dwelling insurance?” and, better yet, “do I need it?” But before we get into what dwelling insurance covers, it’s important to understand what a dwelling is.

Your dwelling includes the house you live in and anything attached to the structure itself, such as a garage, deck or porch. It also includes any built-in appliances you may have.

What does dwelling insurance cover?

Dwelling insurance is a part of your standard homeowners insurance policy. It covers the structure of your home, as well as specific perils that can damage your property. Structures that aren’t directly attached to your home, such as a separate guest house, are not typically covered by dwelling insurance, but may still be covered by other parts of your homeowners insurance policy.
Standard dwelling insurance will cover many of the same perils covered under your homeowners insurance policy such as:
  • Lightning
  • Fire
  • Wind
  • Hail
  • Sleet
  • Smoke
  • Explosions
  • Falling objects
  • Vandalism
  • Theft

For instance, if a portion of your home is damaged by a fire, including the wooden deck attached to the back of your house, then dwelling insurance will cover the costs to repair or rebuild the home and wooden deck. 

What is not covered by dwelling insurance?

Typically damage as a result of a flood will not be covered by dwelling insurance and requires a separate flood insurance policy. It also does not cover damage as a result of earthquakes or sewer backups. While most parts of your home will be covered under a dwelling insurance policy, a detached garage, shed, above-ground pool, and fences usually won’t be.

Be sure to carefully review your homeowners policy or speak with your agent to better understand exactly what is and isn’t covered by your dwelling coverage.

Related topics & resources

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What does landlord insurance cover?
Does homeowners insurance cover renters?
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Product, coverage, discounts, insurance terms, definitions, and other descriptions are intended for informational purposes only and do not in any way replace or modify the definitions and information contained in your individual insurance contracts, policies, and/or declaration pages from Nationwide-affiliated underwriting companies, which are controlling. Such products, coverages, terms, and discounts may vary by state and exclusions may apply.