What does 'standard homeowners insurance' typically exclude?

Standard homeowners insurance typically excludes coverage for floods and earthquakes. These types of natural disasters can cause extensive damage and are usually categorized as separate risks due to their unique nature and the specific kinds of coverage they require. This exclusion is significant because homeowners need to understand that while their standard policy may cover various risks, it might not protect them from the severe financial consequences of flooding or earthquake damage.

For instance, flooding can occur from heavy rain, storm surges, or even nearby river overflows, and it often requires a separate flood insurance policy to obtain coverage. Similarly, earthquake insurance is a specialized form that homeowners must purchase separately if they live in areas prone to seismic activity. This distinction highlights the necessity for homeowners to assess their individual risk factors and consider supplemental insurance policies to ensure comprehensive protection against these specific threats.