An annual policy review is the best way to avoid a coverage surprise. Points to keep in mind:

• Verify adequate dwelling and personal property coverage limits. Underinsuring your property may result in a claim settlement below the cost of rebuilding, replacing, or repairing damages.
• Identify what the insurance policy does and does not cover. Review exclusions, limitations, and loss settlement restrictions. Talk to the local agent about policy add-ons to address coverage gaps. Be certain proper insurance is in place before a loss occurs.
• The insurance contract outlines policyholder duties following a losss. Among these are promptly reporting the incident, protecting the property from further damage, allowing the insurance adjuster to examine and assess damage, providing a list of damaged personal property, and more.