Homeowners Insurance in Pennsylvania: What’s Covered and What’s Not
Most homeowners assume their insurance policy protects them from anything that could go wrong. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.
Whether you live in Ebensburg, Carrolltown, or anywhere in Cambria County, knowing what your homeowners insurance actually covers—and what it doesn’t—is key to avoiding expensive surprises down the road.
This guide breaks down the essentials of homeowners insurance in Pennsylvania, from the standard protections to the common gaps most people don’t realize they have.
Why Every Homeowner in PA Needs Insurance
Mortgage Requirements and Legal Protection
If you have a mortgage, your lender almost certainly requires homeowners insurance. But even if you own your home outright, coverage helps you:
Rebuild after a disaster
Replace damaged belongings
Defend yourself legally if someone gets hurt on your property
Risks Unique to Cambria County Homes
Western Pennsylvania homes face unique risks like:
Heavy snow and ice
Basement flooding
Older home structures with outdated systems
That’s why choosing the right policy (and add-ons) is more than a checkbox—it’s peace of mind.
Want to understand what your current policy covers? Schedule a quick policy review with a local agent.
What’s Typically Covered by Homeowners Insurance
Dwelling Coverage
Covers the physical structure of your home—walls, roof, foundation, etc.—against risks like:
Fire
Wind
Hail
Theft
Vandalism
Personal Property Protection
Helps replace your belongings if they’re damaged or stolen—furniture, electronics, clothing, and more.
Liability Coverage
Protect yourself financially if someone is injured on your property or if you cause damage to someone else’s property (ex: a tree falling on a neighbor’s roof).
Temporary Housing (Loss of Use)
If your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event, your policy may pay for hotel stays, meals, and other living expenses.
What’s Not Covered (Unless You Add It)
Standard home insurance policies do not cover the following unless you specifically add them:
Flood Damage
Most home insurance policies exclude flood coverage. If you live near a floodplain or have a history of basement flooding, you’ll need separate flood insurance.
Sewer Backup
Water damage from sewer or sump pump backup is usually excluded—but can often be added affordably.
Earth Movement
Sinkholes, landslides, and earthquakes are not covered under standard policies.
Maintenance-Related Issues
Damage from lack of maintenance (like mold, rot, or pest infestations) is considered preventable—and not covered.
Optional Add-Ons and Smart Upgrades
Flood Insurance in Pennsylvania
Whether through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program or a private provider, flood coverage is a smart addition for many homes—even if you’re not in a high-risk zone.
Equipment Breakdown and Water Backup
Covers things like broken HVAC units, home appliances, or backup water systems.
Jewelry or Valuables Coverage
High-value items like wedding rings, collectibles, or firearms may exceed the limits of your base policy. You can “schedule” them separately to ensure full protection.
Locally trusted. Community focused. Serving Cambria County and beyond.
Get Home Insurance That Covers What You Need
At Ebensburg Insurance, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all policies. We help homeowners across Cambria County understand exactly what their policy includes—and where they may be exposed.
Whether you're buying a home, reviewing your current policy, or want to protect your home better this year, we’re here to help.
Request a free quote
Or schedule a quick policy review with one of our local agents
Serving Ebensburg, Bellwood, Carrolltown, Northern Cambria, and beyond.
