Homeowners insurance offers financial protection against disasters. A standard policy insures the home itself and the things you keep inside.

This usually means it covers both damage to your property and your liability or legal liability for any injuries and property damage you or members of the family cause to other folks. This includes damage brought on by household pets.

Damage caused by most disasters is covered but there are exceptions. The most significant are damage brought on by floods, earthquakes and poor maintenance. You have to buy two separate policies for flood and earthquake protection. Maintenance-related issues are the homeowners’ responsibility.