An unexpected or involuntary event that causes harm, injury, damage, or loss.

B 

A record of the claims you’ve filed, plus all the claims filed by people living in your house over the past seven years. Insurance companies check your CLUE report before they give you a homeowners policy. Make sure your CLUE report is correct

A company that rates the financial condition of insurance companies. Your insurance company’s rating

Something that is beyond human control that damages or destroys your home or possessions – such as a hurricane or tornado.

(ACV) For property insurance, the market value of your home before and after your loss.

The cost of housing and feeding your family after your home is damaged by something your homeowners insurance covers. Usually limited to 10% to 30% of your policy value (if you have a $100,000 policy, your potential reimbursement would be $10,000-$30,000).

What a property is worth after you add the value of any improvements you’ve made and then subtract any value it’s lost.

The person who works out the details of your claim. An adjuster can work for anyone. Staff adjusters work for the insurance company. Public adjusters are hired by and paid by homeowners. Independent adjusters work for whomever hires them – insurance companies or consumers.  

A homeowners policy that covers you for losses caused by anything that’s not specifically listed as being excluded (see exclusions