5 Common Home Insurance Coverage Gaps Minnesota Homeowners Should Know

Understanding Coverage Gaps

Standard homeowners policies don't cover everything. Knowing what's excluded helps you make informed decisions about additional coverage.

1. Water Backup and Sump Pump Failure

What's Not Covered

Standard policies typically exclude:

• Sewer or drain backup
• Sump pump overflow
• Water seeping through foundation

Minnesota Relevance

With Minnesota's heavy snow melt and spring rains, water backup claims are common. This endorsement is often affordable and valuable.

2. Flooding

What's Not Covered

Homeowners insurance does NOT cover flood damage from:

• Rivers and lakes overflowing
• Storm surge
• Rapid accumulation of surface water

What to Do

• Check flood maps for your property
• Consider separate flood insurance through NFIP or private insurers
• Remember: floods can happen anywhere

3. High-Value Personal Property

Standard Limits

Policies often cap coverage for:

• Jewelry: $1,000-$2,500
• Firearms: $2,000-$2,500
• Electronics: May have aggregate limits
• Collectibles: Limited coverage

Solutions

• Schedule valuable items individually
• Purchase a personal articles floater
• Document items with photos and receipts

4. Home Business Equipment and Liability

What's Limited

Standard policies typically limit:

• Business equipment to $2,500
• No business liability coverage
• No coverage for business income loss

If You Work from Home

Consider:

• Home business endorsement
• Separate business policy
• Professional liability coverage if needed

5. Service Lines

What's Not Typically Covered

• Underground utility lines
• Sewer lines to the street
• Water lines from the main

Why It Matters

Repairing underground lines can cost $5,000-$15,000+. Service line coverage is usually inexpensive.

Additional Gaps to Consider

Vacant Home Exclusions

If your home is vacant for 30-60 days, many coverages reduce or disappear.

Dog Breed Restrictions

Some policies exclude certain breeds or all dog-related liability.

Trampoline and Pool Exclusions

These "attractive nuisances" may require additional liability coverage.

Reviewing Your Policy

1. Read your policy declarations and exclusions
2. Identify items needing additional coverage
3. Discuss options with your insurance professional
4. Update coverage as your situation changes