Understanding Maine Homeowners Insurance: What Is Actually Covered?

Your home is probably the most valuable thing you own, and homeowners insurance is designed to protect it. But many Maine homeowners are surprised to learn exactly what their policy does and does not cover. Understanding these details before you need to file a claim can save you thousands of dollars and a lot of stress.

Dwelling Coverage: Your Home's Structure

Dwelling coverage protects the physical structure of your home, including the walls, roof, foundation, and built-in appliances. If a covered event like a fire, windstorm, or falling tree damages your home, dwelling coverage pays for repairs or rebuilding. The key question is whether your coverage amount actually reflects what it would cost to rebuild your home at today's construction prices, not just what you paid for it.

Personal Property: Your Belongings

This portion of your policy covers your furniture, clothing, electronics, and other personal belongings if they are damaged or stolen. Most policies cover your belongings at actual cash value, which accounts for depreciation. If you want full replacement cost coverage, which pays what it costs to buy the item new, you may need to upgrade your policy. High-value items like jewelry, art, and collectibles often have coverage limits and may need a separate rider.

Liability Protection

If someone is injured on your property or you accidentally damage someone else's property, the liability portion of your homeowners policy covers legal costs and damages. This includes medical payments for minor injuries to guests and legal defense costs if you are sued. Most standard policies include $100,000 in liability coverage, but many homeowners benefit from increasing this amount or adding an umbrella policy.

What Is Typically NOT Covered

Here is where Maine homeowners often get surprised. Standard homeowners policies typically do not cover flood damage, earthquake damage, sewer backup, or normal wear and tear. In Maine, flood insurance is especially important for homes near rivers, the coast, or in flood-prone areas. Sewer backup coverage is an affordable add-on that many homeowners overlook until they need it.

Review Your Policy With Us

When was the last time you actually read your homeowners policy? If it has been more than a year, or if you have made improvements to your home, it is time for a review. At Quirk Insurance, we sit down with you and go through your coverage line by line. We identify gaps, recommend adjustments, and make sure you are not overpaying for coverage you do not need. Call us at (207) 299-1800 to schedule your free policy review.