House Insurance: What It Covers, Why It Matters, and What You Need to Know

When you buy a home, house insurance, a financial safety net that protects your property from damage, theft, or liability claims. Also known as home insurance, it’s not optional if you have a mortgage—but many homeowners don’t fully understand what it actually covers. It’s not just about replacing your roof after a storm. It’s about knowing whether mold from poor ventilation, foundation cracks from settlement, or even damage from a DIY repair is included—or if you’re on your own.

Not all house insurance, a financial safety net that protects your property from damage, theft, or liability claims. Also known as home insurance, it’s not optional if you have a mortgage—but many homeowners don’t fully understand what it actually covers. policies treat new builds the same as older homes. If you bought a new house, your warranty might cover structural issues for the first two years, but after that, it’s all on your house insurance. And if your builder rushed the job, leading to trapped moisture and mold, that’s often excluded unless you have specific coverage for latent defects. Similarly, if you’re fixing a cracked foundation yourself, your policy might deny a claim if they find the damage was worsened by improper repairs. You need to know what your policy excludes before disaster strikes.

Then there’s the question of property insurance, the broader category that includes coverage for buildings and personal belongings against loss or damage. Some policies only cover the structure, while others include personal items, temporary housing if you’re displaced, or even damage from burst pipes. If you live in an area prone to flooding or high winds, you might need separate riders. And if you’re planning a loft conversion or an extension, your insurance might not automatically cover the increased value of your home unless you update your policy.

It’s not just about what happened—it’s about how it happened. A cracked foundation might be covered if it’s due to natural settling over time, but not if it’s caused by poor drainage you ignored for years. A mold problem in a new build? That’s often tied to construction flaws, not homeowner neglect—but proving that takes documentation. That’s why keeping records of inspections, contractor work, and even weather events matters more than you think.

What you’ll find in the articles below are real-world stories and breakdowns of how house insurance interacts with construction choices. From why new builds develop mold to how foundation repairs can void coverage, these posts cut through the jargon and show you exactly what to watch for. Whether you’re a new homeowner, planning a renovation, or just trying to understand your policy, you’ll find practical advice that helps you avoid costly surprises.