Delaware enjoys mild weather for most of the year, but when it comes to home insurance, it’s best to be prepared. Here are some of the most common threats faced by Delaware homeowners:

• Coastal Storms: Delaware’s location near the Atlantic Ocean puts coastal areas at risk of hurricanes and storms.
• Flooding Risks: Low-lying areas, especially near rivers and the coast, are prone to flooding during heavy rainfall or rising tides. Standard home insurance doesn’t cover flood damage, so flood insurance is essential.
• Winter Storms: While winters in Delaware are generally mild, occasional snow and ice storms can damage roofs, gutters and pipes during freezing temperatures.
• Wind Damage: Strong seasonal winds often damage rooftops, outdoor structures and trees around properties.

Knowing these risks helps homeowners choose policies that offer comprehensive protection.

A typical homeowners insurance policy in Delaware includes the following key components:

• Dwelling Coverage: Protects your home’s structure from covered hazards, including windstorms, fires and vandalism.
• Personal Property Coverage: Covers your belongings such as furniture, clothing and electronics in the event they’re damaged or stolen.
• Liability Protection: Provides coverage if someone gets injured on your property or if you accidentally cause damage to someone else’s property.
• Additional Living Expenses (ALE): Covers the cost of temporary housing if your home becomes uninhabitable due to covered damage.

Given Delaware’s geographical and weather-related risks, it’s wise to consider enhancing your policy with these additional coverage options:

• Flood Insurance: Delaware homeowners, especially in coastal and low-lying areas, should consider a National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policy or private flood insurance policy to protect their property from flood-related damage.
• Windstorm Coverage: Strong winds from hurricanes and other storms can cause extensive damage. Wind-specific coverage may offer added peace of mind for Delaware residents.
• Extended Replacement Cost: This option ensures rebuilding costs are covered even if they exceed your policy limit, which is especially useful after widespread natural disasters when construction prices rise.
• Sewer Backup Coverage: Aging sewer systems or heavy rainfall can cause backups into your home, and this optional coverage can help cover the expenses for resulting damage.

The cost of home insurance in Delaware can vary based on several factors, including:

• Location: Homes near the coastline or flood-prone areas typically have higher premiums due to increased environmental risks.
• Home Construction & Age: Older homes or those made from less durable materials may come with higher rates compared to newer, more resilient constructions.
• Claims History: A history of frequent claims, either by you or on the property, can raise your premiums.
• Deductible Amount: Opting for a higher deductible can lower monthly premiums, but you’ll need to cover more out of pocket for claims.

On average, Delaware homeowners pay approximately $1,100 annually for home insurance, though this can change based on the above factors and the price of the home. At Goosehead Insurance, our agents analyze multiple options to ensure you receive affordable and comprehensive coverage.

Quality home insurance doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are our top tips for saving on your policy:

• Bundle Policies: Combine your home and auto insurance for a multi-policy discount.
• Upgrade Security: Installing security systems such as alarms, deadbolts, or cameras could qualify you for a lower premium.
• Disaster-Proof Your Home: Reinforce windows, add storm shutters, or elevate your property if you’re in a flood-prone area to lower your risk (and premium).
• Compare Rates: Shopping around and comparing rates is key! At Goosehead Insurance, we’ll handle the comparisons for you, saving you both time and money.

When you choose Goosehead Insurance, you're choosing convenience, expertise, and unbeatable service. Here’s why Delaware homeowners trust us:

• Comprehensive Comparisons: Our agents compare policies from top-rated carriers to find you the perfect match.
• Personalized Policies: No two homes are the same, and neither should their insurance policies be. We’ll tailor coverage to meet your unique needs.
• Quick and Easy Process: Our online tools make it simple to get a quote and secure coverage in just minutes.
• Exceptional Service: Our team provides top notch service to assist with your questions and tailor policies to specific needs.