What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover? — The Complete Guide for Chicago Homeowners

What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?

Let’s face it — insurance policies are overwhelming. Even after you spend hours researching plans, you may not fully understand what’s protected.

At ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons, we get calls every week from homeowners across Chicago, the North Shore, Lake County, and DuPage County who are confused about what’s included in their coverage.

As Chicago’s leading disaster restoration company, we’ve worked alongside insurance agents for over 40 years — and we’re here to help you become an informed, confident policyholder.

13 Surprising Things Homeowners Insurance May Cover

1. Building Code Upgrades

If your Chicago home is damaged and needs repairs, your policy may cover upgrades to bring it up to current code — for example, upgrading old two-prong outlets to three-prong or replacing outdated plumbing.

2. Spoiled Food

Lost power after a storm? You may be eligible for up to $500 to replace spoiled food from your refrigerator or freezer.

3. Slander or Libel

Your policy may help cover legal fees if you’re sued for defamation — though we hope you never need this!

4. Off-Premises Property (Like at College)

If your child’s belongings are stolen from a dorm room, your homeowners insurance may cover it — just check if the policy applies to off-campus housing.

5. Falling Objects

Damage from falling trees, ice, or even satellite debris may be covered, including home repairs, damaged belongings, or injuries.

6. Additional Living Expenses

If you have to move out during repairs, your insurance may cover hotel stays, meals, or even spikes in utility costs.

7. Personal Liability (Even Off-Site)

If you accidentally injure someone away from home — like during a pickup basketball game — your policy may provide liability coverage.

8. Gravestones and Memorials

Vandalized grave markers? Believe it or not, some policies classify these as personal property and cover repairs.

9. Fire Department Service Fees

Some local fire departments charge homeowners for emergency calls — your policy may cover these fees.

10. Dog Bites

Most policies cover dog bite liability, though high-risk breeds may be excluded (see our companion blog: 5 Things NOT Covered by Homeowners Insurance).

11. Identity Theft Recovery

Some policies offer optional add-ons for identity theft, covering costs like legal fees or credit monitoring.

12. Volcanic Eruptions

It’s rare in Chicago, but many policies automatically cover volcanic damage (while earthquakes and floods usually require extra policies).

13. Riots or Terrorism

Property damage from riots or terrorist attacks may be included, though some exclusions apply.

What Homeowners Insurance Does NOT Cover

It’s just as important to know what’s excluded.

For example:

• Flooding from heavy rain? Needs separate flood insurance.
• Earthquake damage? Often requires an endorsement.
• Burst pipe repairs? Water damage may be covered, but the plumbing bill itself usually isn’t.

We break down all these gaps in our companion guide:
👉 5 Things NOT Covered by Homeowners Insurance

How to Maximize Your Coverage

✅ Read your policy carefully — especially the exclusions.
✅ Ask your agent about optional endorsements or add-ons.
✅ Do regular home maintenance to avoid claim denials.
✅ Keep detailed records and photos of your belongings.

When disaster strikes, having the right policy — and the right restoration team — makes all the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is typically covered under homeowners insurance?
A: Standard homeowners insurance usually covers your dwelling, attached structures, personal property, liability, and additional living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable after a covered event like fire, theft, or storm damage.

Q2: Does homeowners insurance cover water damage?
A: It depends. Sudden and accidental water damage — like from a burst pipe — is often covered. But flooding from rain, sewer backups, or poor maintenance usually requires a separate flood or sewer endorsement.

Q3: Are personal belongings covered when away from home?
A: Yes, often under “off-premises coverage.” This might include items stolen from your car or your child’s college dorm, but check your policy details, especially for off-campus housing.

Q4: Does homeowners insurance cover dog bites?
A: Many policies cover dog bite liability, but some exclude high-risk breeds. It’s essential to confirm with your insurance agent whether your dog is covered.

Q5: How can I tell if I need additional coverage or endorsements?
A: Review your current policy and discuss it with your insurance agent. They can advise on extra coverage you might need, such as flood insurance, earthquake protection, or identity theft endorsements.

Q6: Where can I learn more about homeowners insurance exclusions?
A: Read our companion blog, 5 Things NOT Covered by Homeowners Insurance, for a detailed guide on common gaps and how to prepare.

Why Trust ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons?

Founded in Chicago in 1929, ServiceMaster is the nation’s oldest restoration brand. Locally, ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons has served Chicagoland for over 40 years, helping homeowners recover from water, fire, and mold damage, and more.

Sam Simon, our co-owner and an IICRC Master Fire & Water Restorer, leads a team known for excellence, compassion, and deep industry expertise. Sam is also the author of the book RESTORE: A Complete Guide to Protecting Your Home as Your Most Valuable Asset — a must-read for homeowners wanting to safeguard their properties.

Our Services

We proudly offer:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Specialty Cleaning Services
• Content Cleaning & Packout Services

Neighborhoods We Serve

Evanston, Wilmette, Kenilworth, Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Lake Forest, Northbrook, Glenview, Skokie, Deerfield, Riverwoods, Bannockburn, and the greater Chicagoland area.

Need Help After a Home Disaster?

Call ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons today at (773) 376-1110 — available 24/7.

Download our book RESTORE for expert tips, or reach out for a consultation. We’re here to help you recover, rebuild, and restore peace of mind.