Reading Your Insurance Dec Page Like a Pro

Every insurance policy comes with a declarations page (or "dec page") — a summary of your coverage, limits, deductibles, and premium. It's the insurance equivalent of a nutrition label, and understanding it is crucial for knowing exactly what you're paying for.

Section 1: Named Insured and Policy Period

• Named Insured — The person(s) or entity covered by the policy. Make sure all property owners are listed.
• Policy Period — Start and end dates. Most policies are 12 months.
• Policy Number — Your unique identifier. Keep this accessible for claims.

Section 2: Property Information

• Location — The insured property address
• Construction type — Frame, masonry, etc. This affects your rate.
• Year built — Older homes may have different coverage terms
• Protection class — Your proximity to a fire station and fire hydrant

Section 3: Coverage Breakdown

This is the most important section. For a standard HO-3 policy:

• Coverage A (Dwelling) — Maximum the carrier will pay to rebuild your home. Should equal replacement cost.
• Coverage B (Other Structures) — Typically 10% of Coverage A. Covers detached garages, fences, sheds.
• Coverage C (Personal Property) — Typically 50–70% of Coverage A. Your belongings.
• Coverage D (Loss of Use) — Typically 20% of Coverage A. Temporary living expenses.
• Coverage E (Personal Liability) — Often $100K–$500K. Protects against lawsuits.
• Coverage F (Medical Payments) — Typically $1K–$5K per person for guest injuries.

Section 4: Deductibles

• All-perils deductible — What you pay out of pocket before coverage kicks in
• Wind/hail deductible — Sometimes a separate, higher deductible (percentage-based)
• Hurricane deductible — In coastal areas, a separate percentage deductible

Section 5: Premium Breakdown

Shows what you're paying for each coverage section and any applied discounts. Review this to see where your money goes and identify potential savings.

Section 6: Endorsements

Additional coverages or modifications to your base policy, such as:

• Scheduled personal property (jewelry, art)
• Water backup/sewer coverage
• Identity theft protection
• Equipment breakdown

Red Flags on Your Dec Page

1. Dwelling coverage lower than replacement cost — You'd be underinsured in a total loss
2. Actual cash value on personal property — ACV depreciates your belongings; replacement cost is better
3. No water backup endorsement — Sewer backup is excluded without this add-on
4. High wind/hail deductible — Percentage deductibles on a $300K home can mean $6K+ out of pocket

Get Your Dec Page Reviewed for Free

Send us your current declarations page and we'll review it line by line, identify gaps, and show you where you might save. Upload your dec page or contact us today.