​A smart home is one that provides information and communicates with you no matter where you are. These are growing in popularity today. A wide range of versions are available. Each one seems to do something unique. If you are thinking about the investment in a smart home system of any type, it helps to know what the benefits are. In some cases, they can reduce theft risks and, as a result, lower home insurance costs.

​Ring® is one of the more well-known doorbell cameras. This device aims to provide you with a video feed outside your front door. Some provide real-time video. Others offer photos whenever someone presses your doorbell. What should you know if you plan to buy one?

In all situations, this type of smart home feature can offer benefits to your property. They work somewhat like a limited security system. How does this apply to home insurance?

​Will home insurance replace a home if destroyed? This is a common question many people ask. Most people believe that, if they lose their home, having home insurance means the insurer rebuilds the property. That is not always the case. In many situations, this depends on what happens, the type of insurance you have, and the value of the home. Your home insurance company wants to help you when this occurs. Yet, whether they can depends on a number of variables. Here is what every property owner needs to know.

​Do you know how much home insurance coverage you have? Did you simply sign a contract with an insurer without knowing the details? This could cost you later. Many people select insurance based on the price they paid when buying the home. This is a mistake. Nearly all homes require insurance above market value. That is because it typically costs more to rebuild a home than it does to buy one. How does that factor into the amount of insurance you need?

​Protecting your home is always important. Many people do not think much about theft. In some areas, it seems okay to leave the doors unlocked at night. Yet, theft is a constant problem even in the best neighborhoods. It is one of the most common claims against home insurance policies, too. For those who want to improve home safety, it’s possible. Take a look at this checklist.

​The foundation of your home is a critical component. Everything builds up from it. A small crack or area of damage could mean the entire structure is at risk. Yet, foundation problems can also be expensive to fix. Will your home insurance help cover your losses?

The answer depends on a number of factors. What causes the damage is the most important element. Here’s why.

​Are you responsible for another person’s injuries if they happen on your property? Initially, you may believe the answer is yes. But, there are some limitations. If a trespasser enters your property, you still have some responsibility for providing a safe space. However, when your home insurance pays out depends on a variety of factors. Here is what you need to know.

​Meth is a huge problem across the nation, as highlighted by the plethora of methamphetamine-related news stories that flood the Internet every day.

This powerful, illegal substance can affect individuals and families in ways they might never suspect, as homes that were former meth labs are now being made available to the public. So-called “meth houses” may be offered at a steal of a price, but they aren’t necessarily every flipper’s or homeowner’s cup of tea.

​Ever since you got your dog, they have been a part of your family. You love your dog and would hate to have anything happen. One of the worst-case scenarios for any dog owner is when your pet attacks or bites someone hard enough to break their skin. According to the Insurance Information Institute dog bites accounted for one third of all homeowners insurance liability claims in the United States. So, could your dog raise your home insurance rates?

​How long can an insured wait to file a homeowner’s claim with the insurance company? This question is not asked often, but it can have serious financial consequences if you don’t understand the implications of timely claim reporting.