Getting a home insurance quote: what insurers ask

What insurers usually ask

Questions vary by company and state, but most quotes depend on:

• Roof age and material
• Year built and updates to electrical, plumbing and heating
• Square footage and construction type, which drive rebuild cost
• Distance to a fire station and hydrant
• Past claims on the home and on you
• Flood zone, for a separate flood policy

Rebuild cost is not market value

Dwelling coverage should match what it would cost to rebuild the home, which can be higher or lower than its sale price. Ask how the insurer estimated it and whether the policy pays replacement cost or actual cash value.

Flood is usually separate

Standard homeowners policies generally exclude flood damage. Flood coverage comes from the National Flood Insurance Program or a private insurer, and new NFIP policies usually have a waiting period before they take effect, so don't wait for a storm forecast.

Bring your records

Accurate dates for your roof and systems can matter more than an estimate. You can share your ResidentData summary with an insurer when you request a quote in the marketplace. This guide is general information, not insurance advice; your agent and policy decide what is covered.