Coverage A, B, C, D, E, F

Standard ISO homeowner policy forms organize coverage into six lettered categories. Coverage A is the dwelling itself — the structure, attached components, built-in fixtures. Coverage B is detached structures on the property — garage, shed, fence, gazebo, sometimes a pool deck. Coverage C is personal property (contents) — furniture, clothing, electronics, etc. Coverage D is loss-of-use / additional living expense — hotel, restaurant meals, temporary rental while the dwelling is uninhabitable. Coverage E is personal liability for incidents on the property or arising from the insured’s actions. Coverage F is medical payments to others — small no-fault medical coverage for guests injured on the property.

Each Coverage has its own limit and its own deductible interaction. A loss often touches multiple — a kitchen fire damages the dwelling (A), destroys appliances and furniture (C), forces you into a hotel (D), and might involve medical attention for someone (F). Understanding which coverage applies to which line item determines how the carrier settles. Coverage B is the most overlooked — homeowners often underinsure detached structures because the default is 10% of Coverage A, which on older or larger detached buildings is grossly insufficient.

A windstorm topples a tree onto the house and the detached garage. The dwelling has $400k Coverage A; Coverage B defaults to 10% = $40k. Damage to the house: $80k (paid under A). Damage to the detached garage: $60k. Coverage B caps at $40k, so $20k of the garage damage is out-of-pocket. Doubling Coverage B to 20% at the next renewal costs ~$25/yr and would have covered the full $60k.