Frequently asked questions

1. What is Homeowner's Insurance? How do I get the lowest rates?
2. My neighbor's tree blew onto my fence. Shouldn’t he be responsible for repairing the damage?
3. Do I have to take a physical exam in order to get life insurance?
4. What can I do if an insurance company rejects my life insurance application?
5. What is life insurance designed for?
6. Do I have to live in a designated flood zone in order to purchase flood insurance?

1a. What is Homeowner's Insurance?

There are two types of Homeowners Insurance, Named-Peril Insurance and All-Risk Insurance. The first one pays only for the causes of loss specified in the policy. All-Risk Insurance covers losses except those specifically excluded in the policy.

1b. How do I get the lowest rates?

Insurers frequently award lower rates to homeowners who guard against theft, accidents and other losses by using such devices as alarm systems. Some companies provide discounts to premium multiple-policy holders (home and auto or life).

2. My neighbor's tree blew onto my fence. Shouldn’t he be responsible for repairing the damage?

Your neighbor is only responsible for the damage if there was something about the tree that should have alerted your neighbor to the fact that it represented a dangerous condition. If an "act of God" causes an otherwise healthy tree belonging to your neighbor to damage your property, you will need to look to your own policy (and your own deductible) for coverage.

3. Do I have to take a physical exam in order to get life insurance?

Some life insurance companies offer non-medical life insurance which is when you only have to answer questions in an application. However, based on your answers on this application, you might be required to take a physical examination if you have seriously impaired health or an existence of a terminal illness. If you refuse to take an examination, the company has the right not to sell you a policy.

4. What can I do if an insurance company rejects my life insurance application?

Each company has its own underwriting standards. Underwriters decide which applicants for insurance are accepted and which are rejected. If a company refuses to insure you, make sure to shop around; keeping in mind that companies do not need to provide life insurance for you.

5. What is life insurance designed for?

Life insurance is designed to help you deal with the financial impact of some of life's unexpected events. It ensures that when you die, your family will have the financial resources it needs to meet its expenses.

6. Do I have to live in a designated flood zone in order to purchase flood insurance?

No. Most properties are eligible for flood coverage. It is not a requirement that you live in a flood zone in order to purchase flood insurance.