Every homeowners insurance policy includes a percentage of coverage for additional living expenses. If you’re temporarily displaced from your home because of damage, this coverage can help you pay for the additional everyday expenses until you’re able to move back in. But what exactly does additional living expense (ALE) coverage include?
Here is a basic guide to the kinds of out-of-pocket expenses your ALE insurance can help you with:
If your home is severely damaged, your insurance company may deem it unsuitable for living in while repairs are being made. In this case, your additional living expense coverage can help defray the costs of a temporary living arrangement. Lodging expenses covered include hotel and motel stays and short-term rentals.
If you’re not living at home, you’ll likely need to rely on restaurants for a while. Unfortunately, this cost can add up quickly. Your additional living expense insurance can cover a reasonable amount of food costs exceeding your normal grocery bills.
Your insurance may help you with other expenses in addition to food and lodging. Some examples of common additional living expenses include:
While the list of expenses included in your ALE coverage is fairly expansive, it won’t cover everything. It’s important to remember that this portion of your insurance policy will not pay for damage to your home or belongings. However, these costs are covered by the dwelling portion of your homeowners insurance.
If you’re not certain, you can always check with your insurance company for more details about your additional living expenses coverage.
Terese Ferrara is a long-time resident of the Bay Area and has been a partner with The Goss Real Estate Group for many years. She and her husband raised their two daughters in San Jose, where she successfully continues to build her real estate career.
After earning a bachelor’s degree from San Jose State University, she went on to teach in the San Jose Unified School District for 9 years. Transitioning to real estate was a logical choice, utilizing her patient demeanor to educate all levels of buyers and sellers. Knowledge and experience demonstrate her vested interest in delivering the highest level of care and professionalism to every client. She consistently strives to exceed her client’s expectations throughout the entire real estate transaction and remains a trusted advisor long after each close.
As a board member on KW Bay Area Estates’ Associate Leadership Council (ALC), she aids in support of culture and professional development strategies for over 180 associates. Terese is also a Director for the Santa Clara County Association of Realtors Foundation, which supports community service initiatives in Silicon Valley.
Terese is the consummate real estate professional dedicated to providing unparalleled service to her clients through ongoing training and education, keeping her on top of the dynamic market and latest real estate trends. Her high-touch approach coupled with honesty and integrity support her commitment to her client’s real estate needs.
