According to a survey published in the Journal of Financial Planning, many homeowners have vastly misguided views of what their homeowners insurance actually covers. According to this survey conducted by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, "One third of homeowners believe flood damage will be covered by their standard policy. Over half think their policy covers them in the event of a water line break. Thirty-five percent say they will be compensated for an earthquake, and a slightly lesser proportion thinks mold is covered."
In actuality, the typical perils (causes of property destruction) that are typically not covered are:
- Flood damage (this is a separate policy)
- Earthquake (this is also a separate policy)
- Mold
- Acts of war
- Parts of the property in disrepair (Including worn-out plumbing, electrical wiring, air conditioners, heating units and roofing).