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October 24.2025

2 Minutes Read

Four Key Insurance Questions Every MN & WI Homeowner Must Ask Today

Damaged house roof exemplifying Minnesota Wisconsin homeowners insurance needs

Four Essential Questions Homeowners Should Ask About Insurance

Homeowners in Minnesota and Wisconsin face the formidable threat of storm damage, with frequent wind and hail impacting roofs, windows, and siding. Navigating the complexities of insurance in the wake of storm damage becomes crucial, yet many homeowners discover they’re underinsured when it's too late. To avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses during recovery, it’s vital to ask your insurance company key questions.

1. Understanding Your Coverage: RCV vs. ACV

The first question to ask is whether your policy covers Replacement Cost Value (RCV) or Actual Cost Value (ACV). RCV reflects the full cost of replacing damaged property with new items, which means while your premiums may be higher, your coverage is more comprehensive. Conversely, ACV factors in depreciation, which could leave you with significant out-of-pocket costs for replacing old items reduced in value.

2. Knowing Your Deductible Amount

Next, inquire about your deductible. Many homeowners are surprised to find that deductibles have significantly increased over recent years, with $5,000 or higher becoming more common. Understanding this number is critical for financial planning, as a higher deductible means more upfront costs during the claim process.

3. Types of Deductibles Explained

It's also important to clarify the type of deductible associated with your policy. Flat deductibles are simple, requiring a fixed amount per claim, while percentage deductibles apply to the insured value of your home, especially for specific incidents like storm damage. Knowing this can help you better prepare financially in the event of a claim.

4. Cosmetic Damage Exclusions

Finally, ask about cosmetic damage exclusions. Many policies may not cover superficial damages, which can leave homeowners facing unforeseen repair costs. If your home’s appearance is damaged even when functional, special endorsements may be necessary to cover these costs.

Staying informed and proactive about your insurance policy can save homeowners not just money, but also the headache of navigating claims after a storm. For further insights on storm damage and prevention, explore articles on home improvement and remodeling to protect your investment.

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Four Key Insurance Questions Every MN & WI Homeowner Must Ask Today

Four Essential Questions Homeowners Should Ask About Insurance

1. Understanding Your Coverage: RCV vs. ACV

2. Knowing Your Deductible Amount

3. Types of Deductibles Explained

4. Cosmetic Damage Exclusions

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