What's covered
Standard home insurance pays for structural repair, contents replacement, and Additional Living Expenses (ALE) while you're displaced. Smoke damage to contents is included but caps and valuation methods vary.
Replacement Cost vs Actual Cash Value
ACV pays depreciated value (often 30–50% of replacement). Replacement Cost pays new-for-old. Most modern policies are RC for structure, but contents vary.
Frequently asked
- How long does ALE last?
- Usually 12–24 months, with a cap. Some 'limited' policies cap at 30% of the dwelling limit.
- Do I have to itemize every burned item?
- Yes — insurers require an itemized contents inventory with model/age/value. Apps like Encircle help.
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