Home insurance built for Iowa weather
Eastern Iowa homeowners know how quickly the weather can turn. The August 2020 derecho damaged homes across Marion and Cedar Rapids in a single afternoon, and spring hail and summer windstorms are a regular part of life here. The right homeowners policy, with the right limits and deductibles, is what turns a disaster into a manageable repair.
As an independent agency, we compare coverage from the companies we represent and explain the details that matter: how your deductibles work, whether your roof is covered at replacement cost, and what’s excluded.
What a homeowners policy covers
Dwelling
The structure of your home, including the roof, walls and built-in systems.
Other structures
Detached garages, sheds and fences on your property.
Personal property
Furniture, clothing, electronics and other belongings, at home or away.
Loss of use
Extra living expenses if your home is unlivable after a covered loss.
Personal liability
Protection if someone is injured on your property or you damage someone else’s.
Medical payments
Minor medical bills for guests hurt at your home, regardless of fault.
Coverage worth adding
A basic policy leaves gaps that catch many Iowa homeowners off guard. Ask us about:
- Water and sewer backup: Covers damage when a floor drain or sump pump backs up, which is common in heavy spring rains.
- Replacement cost on contents: Pays to replace belongings with new items rather than their depreciated value.
- Scheduled valuables: Extra protection for jewelry, firearms, collections and other high-value items.
- Flood insurance: A separate policy, and important for homes near the Cedar River and its tributaries.
- Umbrella liability: An extra $1 million or more of liability protection above your home and auto policies.
Renters, condo and landlord insurance
Not everyone needs a full homeowners policy. We also write:
- Renters insurance for your belongings and liability, usually for a small monthly cost.
- Condo insurance that fills the gap between your association’s master policy and your unit.
- Landlord / dwelling fire policies for rental homes and duplexes you own.
Bundle and save. Most insurance companies offer a discount when you insure your home and auto together. Newer roofs, security systems and claim-free history can also lower your premium.
Companies we compare
We represent several regional and national insurers with strong records of paying claims. See the companies we work with.
Home insurance questions
Does homeowners insurance cover hail and wind damage?
Standard homeowners policies generally cover wind and hail damage, but many policies now carry a separate, higher deductible for wind and hail, sometimes a percentage of your home’s insured value. We’ll show you exactly how your deductible works before a storm, not after.
Is flood damage covered?
No. Standard homeowners policies exclude flooding from rising water. Flood insurance is a separate policy, available through the National Flood Insurance Program and some private insurers. There’s usually a 30-day waiting period before a new flood policy takes effect, so don’t wait for the forecast.
What about water that backs up through a floor drain?
Sewer and drain backup is usually excluded unless you add a water backup endorsement. It’s an inexpensive addition we recommend for most homes with a basement.
How much coverage do I need on my house?
Your dwelling coverage should reflect what it would cost to rebuild your home today, not its market value or what you paid for it. Building costs have risen sharply, so it’s worth reviewing your limits every few years.
I rent. Do I need insurance?
Your landlord’s policy covers the building, not your belongings or your liability. Renters insurance is usually very affordable and can often be bundled with your auto policy for a discount.