{"id":31013,"date":"2026-09-29T23:39:55","date_gmt":"2026-09-30T05:39:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/blog\/?p=31013"},"modified":"2026-10-01T08:32:47","modified_gmt":"2026-10-01T14:32:47","slug":"homeowners-insurance","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/blog\/homeowners-insurance\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is Homeowners Insurance?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>If you\u2019re preparing to buy a home, you\u2019ll likely hear several new financial terms throughout the process. One of the most important is homeowners insurance. Whether you\u2019re purchasing your very first home or moving into a newly built residence, understanding how homeowners insurance works can help you protect both your home and your budget.<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A common question among buyers is, <strong>&#8220;What <\/strong><strong><em>is<\/em><\/strong><strong> homeowners insurance?&#8221;<\/strong> Homeowners insurance, sometimes called hazard insurance or HOI, is a policy that helps cover your home and belongings if they\u2019re damaged by certain covered events. It can also provide liability protection if someone is injured on your property and you\u2019re legally responsible.<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most mortgage lenders require homeowners insurance before closing on a home loan. In fact, having the right coverage is often a condition of financing because it helps protect both the homeowner and the lender\u2019s investment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While homeowners insurance may seem complicated at first, understanding a few key concepts can make shopping for coverage much easier. This article explains what homeowners insurance is, what it typically covers, important insurance terms to know, and how coverage needs can vary depending on where you live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For more homebuying guidance, explore our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/guides\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">complimentary guides<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"0-what-is-homeowners-insurance-and-why-does-it-matter\">What is homeowners insurance and why does it matter?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/AdobeStock_162955460.jpeg\" alt=\"Young couple talking to estate agent\" class=\"wp-image-31018\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Homeowners insurance is a financial safety net designed to help homeowners recover after unexpected events. Depending on your policy, it may help pay to repair or rebuild your home, replace damaged belongings, and cover certain legal expenses if someone is injured on your property. Without insurance, homeowners could be responsible for significant out-of-pocket costs following events such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Fire or smoke damage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Windstorms<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hail damage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lightning strikes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Theft or vandalism<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Certain water-related incidents<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Liability claims involving guests<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>For many families, a home is their largest financial investment. Homeowners insurance helps provide peace of mind by potentially reducing the financial impact of covered losses.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ub-styled-box ub-styled-box ub-notification-box\" id=\"ub-styled-box-c9fd44cc-3a7a-4710-94b5-8078a9456daf\">\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\" id=\"ub-styled-box-notification-content-a0f7e4f8-920b-486d-887c-4bcc55d6d60b\"><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> Research the area you\u2019ll be calling home soon. Certain regions are more prone to weather-related incidents and damage, so find out if it\u2019s recommended to have additional insurance coverage, such as for hail or flood damage.<\/p>\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What does homeowners insurance cover?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Coverage varies by policy and insurer, but most homeowners insurance policies include several key types of protection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Dwelling coverage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Dwelling coverage helps pay for repairs to the physical structure of your home if it\u2019s damaged by a covered event. This may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Exterior walls<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Roofing materials<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flooring<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Built-in cabinetry<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Attached garages<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Electrical and plumbing systems<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>The amount of dwelling coverage should generally reflect the estimated cost to rebuild the home rather than its market value.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Personal property coverage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Personal property coverage helps protect belongings inside your home. Examples include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Furniture<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Clothing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Electronics<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Appliances<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sporting equipment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Household goods<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Depending on your policy, items may be reimbursed based on actual cash value or replacement cost.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Liability coverage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Liability protection may help cover legal expenses and medical costs if someone is injured on your property and you\u2019re legally responsible. For example, liability coverage may apply if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>A guest slips on an icy walkway<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A visitor trips on a loose step<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You accidentally cause damage to another person\u2019s property<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Liability coverage is often a valuable component of a homeowners policy because it helps provide financial protection beyond damage to your home itself.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Additional living expenses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If a covered loss makes your home temporarily uninhabitable, your policy may help cover additional living expenses. Examples may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Hotel stays<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Temporary rental housing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Restaurant meals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Certain transportation costs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Coverage limits and eligibility vary by policy.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What isn\u2019t covered by homeowners insurance?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Although homeowners insurance can provide broad protection, no policy covers everything. That\u2019s why it\u2019s important to understand exclusions before purchasing coverage. An exclusion refers to situations, events, or property types that aren\u2019t covered under your policy. Common exclusions may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Flood damage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Earthquake damage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Normal wear and tear<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pest infestations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Deferred maintenance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Certain sewer or drain backups<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>If damage is caused by an excluded event, your insurance company may deny the claim. Before choosing a policy, review exclusions carefully and ask your insurance professional whether additional coverage options are available.&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What insurance terms should homebuyers know?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/AdobeStock_238340781.jpeg\" alt=\"Attractive couple signing contract with real-estate agent in contemporary house\" class=\"wp-image-31017\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Insurance documents often contain unfamiliar language, especially for first-time homebuyers. Understanding a few common terms can make comparing policies much easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is an insurance deductible?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance company contributes toward a covered claim. For example, if you have a $1,000 deductible and experience $8,000 in covered damage, you would typically pay the first $1,000 while your insurer covers the remaining eligible amount. Generally speaking:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Higher deductibles often result in lower premiums.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lower deductibles often result in higher premiums.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Choosing the right deductible depends on your budget and comfort level with potential out-of-pocket expenses.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is an insurance premium?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>An insurance premium is the amount you pay for your homeowners insurance policy. Premiums are influenced by many factors, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Age of the home<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Home\u2019s location<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Construction materials<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Coverage limits<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Deductible amount<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Claims history<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Available discounts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Premiums can often be paid through an escrow account as part of your monthly mortgage payment.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is an insurance claim?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>An insurance claim is a formal request you submit to your insurance provider after a covered loss. When a claim is filed, the insurance company reviews details such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Cause of the damage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Coverage eligibility<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Repair estimates<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Applicable policy limits<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Providing photographs, receipts, and documentation can help support the claims process.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is an insurance rider?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A rider, sometimes called an endorsement, is optional coverage that expands the protection provided by a standard homeowners policy. Common riders include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Jewelry coverage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Water backup coverage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Home office coverage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Scheduled personal property coverage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Extended replacement cost coverage<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Riders can be useful when you own valuables that exceed standard policy limits or want protection for specific risks.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is inflation guard?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Homes are insured based on their estimated replacement cost rather than their market value. Inflation guard is a feature that automatically adjusts your home\u2019s insured value over time to help account for increases in labor and construction material costs. This can help ensure your coverage keeps pace with changing rebuilding expenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Does homeowners insurance cover new-construction homes?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes. Newly built homes generally qualify for homeowners insurance just like resale homes. In fact, newer homes may benefit from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/blog\/can-a-new-construction-home-help-you-save-money-on-homeowners-insurance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">lower insurance rates<\/a> because major systems and structural components are brand new. These can include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Roofing materials<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Electrical systems<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plumbing systems<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Heating and cooling equipment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Structural framing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Because newer homes often meet more recent building codes and may require lower maintenance concerns, they can sometimes be less expensive to insure than older homes. Many insurance companies also offer new-home discounts or recent-purchase discounts. These discounts may be available on both newly built and resale homes purchased within the past year. If you\u2019re considering a newly constructed home, learn more about our process <a href=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/new-construction-homes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Does location affect homeowners insurance coverage?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes. One of the biggest factors that affects homeowners insurance coverage and pricing is location. Different parts of the country face different weather patterns and environmental risks, which can influence both insurance requirements and premium costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Flood insurance considerations<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the most common misconceptions among homebuyers is that homeowners insurance automatically covers flood damage. In most cases, standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover flooding caused by rising water. Depending on where you live, you may need a separate flood insurance policy. Even homes located outside designated high-risk flood zones can experience flooding from heavy rainfall or severe storms. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.floodsmart.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Learn more about flood insurance<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hail and wind coverage considerations<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>In regions that frequently experience hailstorms or severe wind incidents, insurance policies may include special provisions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Homeowners may encounter:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Separate wind or hail deductibles<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Roof inspection requirements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Coverage limitations based on roof age<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>These considerations are common in areas throughout the Midwest, Great Plains, and Mountain West.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Coastal and hurricane-prone areas<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Homebuyers purchasing homes near coastlines may face additional insurance requirements. Depending on the location, homeowners may need:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Windstorm coverage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hurricane-specific coverage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Separate deductibles for named storms<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Understanding these requirements before closing can help avoid surprises later.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Wildfire risk areas<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>In some western states, wildfire exposure can influence insurance availability and pricing. Homeowners may be encouraged to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Maintain defensible space around the property<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Trim vegetation near structures<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Follow local wildfire preparedness recommendations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Insurance requirements vary by region and carrier.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How can first-time homebuyers choose the right policy?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/AdobeStock_602891087.jpeg\" alt=\"Couple, finance and budget conversation with documents planning for tax, bills and savings on laptop with banking, online payment and investment. People, financial thinking and household strategy.\" class=\"wp-image-31016\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Shopping for homeowners insurance doesn\u2019t have to feel overwhelming. Just like how you can <a href=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/campaigns\/2544\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">personalize your home<\/a>, you can personalize your homeowners insurance policy to suit your needs. A few practical steps can help simplify the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Compare multiple quotes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Insurance premiums and coverage options vary by company. Comparing multiple quotes can help you evaluate:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Costs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Deductibles<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Coverage limits<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Discounts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Policy features<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Obtaining several quotes gives you a better understanding of your options.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Understand coverage limits<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s important to know how much protection your policy provides. Ask questions about:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Dwelling coverage limits<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Personal property coverage limits<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Liability protection<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Additional living expense coverage<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>A policy should fit both your home and your financial situation.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ask about discounts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Many insurers offer discounts that can reduce premiums. Potential savings opportunities may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>New-home discounts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Multi-policy discounts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Security system discounts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Claims-free discounts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Automatic payment discounts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Discounts vary by carrier, so it\u2019s worth asking what\u2019s available.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Review your policy regularly<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Homeownership needs can change over time. Consider reviewing your policy annually or after:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Major renovations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>New purchases<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Home additions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Significant life events<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Regular reviews can help ensure your coverage remains aligned with your needs.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently asked questions about homeowners insurance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: Is homeowners insurance required?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A: <\/strong>Homeowners insurance isn\u2019t required by federal law, but most mortgage lenders require it as a condition of the loan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: Does homeowners insurance cover water damage?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A: <\/strong>It depends on the source of the damage. Some types of sudden and accidental water damage, such as that from a broken pipe, may be covered, while flooding and certain other water-related events may be excluded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: Can I switch insurance companies after buying a home?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A: <\/strong>Yes. Homeowners can generally change insurance providers, though it\u2019s important to avoid any gaps in coverage during the transition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><strong>Q: <\/strong>How often should I review my homeowners insurance policy?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A: <\/strong>Many insurance professionals recommend reviewing your policy annually and after significant home improvements or life changes. Learn more by downloading our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/campaigns\/1951\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">free insurance FAQ guide<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final thoughts: What is homeowners insurance and why does it matter?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/AdobeStock_227656591.jpeg\" alt=\"Young happy couple talking with real estate agent and buying a new house.\" class=\"wp-image-31021\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Understanding what homeowners insurance is can help you make informed decisions throughout your homebuying journey. The right policy helps protect your home, personal belongings, and finances from covered losses while meeting lender requirements if you\u2019re financing your purchase.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As you compare policies, pay close attention to coverage limits, deductibles, exclusions, and regional risks such as flooding, hail, windstorms, hurricanes, or wildfires. Taking the time to understand your options today can help you feel more confident as a homeowner tomorrow. If you\u2019re not quite there yet, learn some <a href=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/blog\/save-for-a-down-payment\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">budgeting strategies<\/a> to save up for a down payment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1350\" height=\"560\" src=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/mortgageblog_tesimonial.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-31022\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Still have questions about homeowners insurance? For more information on this important topic and to make sure you\u2019re insuring your home properly, contact an insurance specialist from our affiliate, American Home Insurance Agency, at&nbsp;<a href=\"tel:888.799.8322\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">888.325.8108<\/a>&nbsp;or visit&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.americanhomeinsurance.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">AmericanHomeInsurance.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"cross-sell\">\n  <div class=\"cs-content-new\">\n     <div class=\"u-width-30 cs-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/campaigns\/1024\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"post-img u-width-100 cs-guide-cover\" src=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/content\/campaigns\/media-50082.webp\" alt=\"Mortgage quick reference guide.\"><\/a>\n     <\/div>\n     <div class=\"u-width-70 cs-content\">    \n       <h4>Ready to finance the home of your dreams?<\/h4>\n       <p>Our free guide will give you an overview of the loan process, plus tools to keep you organized through closing day.<\/p>\n       <p class=\"m-top-40\"><a class=\"btn-rah\" href=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/campaigns\/1024\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Get it now<\/a><\/p>\n     <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Homeowners insurance is a financial safety net designed to help homeowners recover after unexpected events. Depending on your policy, it may help pay to repair or rebuild your home, replace damaged belongings, and cover certain legal expenses if someone is injured on your property. Without insurance, homeowners could be responsible for significant out-of-pocket costs that drain their budget. Prepare for the unexpected with the right homeowners insurance coverage. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":31019,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"ub_ctt_via":"","cybocfi_hide_featured_image":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[382,94,150,155],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/AdobeStock_316505524.jpeg","author_info":{"display_name":"Brian Metzger","author_link":"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/blog\/author\/bmetzger2\/"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v22.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\r\n<title>What Is Homeowners Insurance? - Richmond American Blog<\/title>\r\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Planning to purchase a home? 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