Buying a home is one of the most exciting times of your life. It presents an opportunity for you to have a place you love. It also provides you with new risks.

As a homeowner, you will now need to take steps to reduce the amount of risk present to yourself and visitors. Here's a breakdown of how home insurance can help you. Speak to your agent about a customized plan for your needs.

Protecting the Structure

Property insurance is a primary part of home insurance. It protects the structure of the home. Additionally, it may protect other structures or items to the property line. Each policy differs in what it covers. Most standard policies protect you from financial loss associated with:

• Fires

• Theft

• Vandalism

• Storm damage – though not commonly flooding

Each policy also has exclusions. These are specific types of events that do not receive coverage. If something happens to the structure of your home, you can call your agent to file a claim. Claims have an upper limit. Your policy will always list the maximum coverage allowance. This is the most your policy will pay for repairs or replacement of your home. Be sure it is at least enough to replace your home – not just pay off your mortgage.

Protecting Your Assets

Home insurance policies also protect what's in your home. Many policies provide contents insurance. This can help in situations where damage or loss occurs to your home's furnishings, electronics, personal items, and collections. Most policies have a total upper limit and a per item limit.

If you have very valuable items, you may want to select a separate policy just to cover those items. Antiques, high-end jewelry, collectibles, art collections, and other valuable items may need this type of supplement coverage.

General Liability Insurance

This component protects you from claims made against your family by others. It protects from instances such as someone who gets hurt on your property. It can help to cover the claims made against you for negligence. If you end up in court, it may help cover your legal defense as well.

You may need additional elements in your home insurance policy. The good news is your agent will work with you to customize a plan that fits those needs. Update your plan each year. Be sure to ask your agent about any discounts you may qualify for on your plan to save money.

We've got you covered. Call Reliable Insurance Managers, Inc. at 713-227-7283 for a free Houston home insurance quote.