5 Common Home Insurance Mistakes Long Island Homeowners Should Avoid

1. Underinsuring Your Home

Many homeowners only think about market value, but insurance should be based on replacement cost—what it would take to rebuild your home if disaster struck. Rising construction costs on Long Island make this especially important.

2. Not Reviewing Coverage Regularly

Life changes—new renovations, updated building codes, or even inflation can all affect whether your policy still provides enough protection. A quick annual review can save you from surprises later.

3. Forgetting to Account for Deductibles

Some policies include hurricane or windstorm deductibles that work differently than your standard deductible. Homeowners often don’t realize what their out-of-pocket costs could be until after a storm hits.

4. Overlooking Discounts You May Qualify For

From installing a security system to bundling your home and auto, there are often discounts available that homeowners miss. Reviewing these can lower your premium without reducing coverage.

5. Waiting Until After a Claim to Ask Questions

The worst time to learn about your policy is when you need to file a claim. Taking time now to understand what’s covered—and what’s not—gives peace of mind and prevents frustration later.