Homeowners who guard against theft, accidents and other losses can often get lower insurance rates and policy discounts. Here are some things you can do to help qualify for lower premiums:

• Secure your home with dead bolts and window locks.
• Install a security system with an outside signal and connection to local police.
• Install and maintain smoke detectors.
• Install a sprinkler system for fire.
• Install a fire alarm that automatically alerts the local fire department.
• Stop smoking.
• Keep walks and entrance ways clear of snow and ice.

Whenever you change something significant about your home or its contents, for example, you should review your coverage:

• when you put on an addition to your home;
• when you start a business from your home;
• when you make a major purchase, such as jewelry or a computer;
• when you purchase other residential properties either for rental or as a second home.

Yes. Typically, homeowners insurance covers you for accidental discharge of water from a plumbing system. 

Homeowners insurance policies typically do not cover damage resulting from the following:

• Earth movement
• Water
• Nuclear hazard
• Neglect or failure to make repairs
• Corrosion, deterioration, decay or rust
• Wear and tear
• Contamination
• Fungi
• Increased cost due to enforcement of any building ordinance or law
• Government actions
• Power failure
• Animals or pests
• War

If your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered loss, insurance pays for those extra costs of housing, eating expenses, etc. up to the applicable limit.