06/23/2026
Emery & Webb Insurance Sales Manager John Midwood, recently shared these insights with the Dutchess Realtors, and wanted to share this expert advice with you as well.
As we continue to navigate a dynamic housing market, one of the most important ways we can support our shared clients is by helping them fully understand their homeowners insurance coverage—not just the basics, but the protections that truly matter when something goes wrong.
At Emery & Webb Insurance, we work closely with realtors representing buyers & sellers, and lending professionals to ensure there are no surprises—at closing or at claim time. I wanted to highlight a few key coverages and endorsements that I strongly recommend discussing with your clients:
Core Coverage: What Every Homeowners Policy Includes
A standard homeowners policy generally covers:
Dwelling: Protection for the home structure itself
Other Structures: Detached garages, sheds, etc.
Personal Property: Belongings inside the home
Liability Coverage: Protection if someone is injured on the property
Additional Living Expenses: Temporary housing if the home becomes uninhabitable
While this foundation is essential, it often needs to be enhanced to fully protect today’s homeowners.
Recommended Endorsements Your Clients Should Consider
1. Water Backup Coverage
Standard policies typically do not cover damage from backed-up drains, sewers, or sump pump failures.
This type of loss is surprisingly common—and expensive, especially in finished basements.
Adding this coverage is relatively inexpensive and can save clients thousands out of pocket.
2. Service Line Coverage
Most homeowners are surprised to learn they are responsible for underground service lines running from the street to their home (water, sewer, electric, gas).
Repairs can range from $5,000 to $20,000+
This endorsement provides coverage for excavation and repair, often with minimal additional premium.
3. Personal Property Replacement Cost
Without this endorsement, personal belongings may be settled at Actual Cash Value (depreciated value).
With Replacement Cost coverage, clients receive the amount needed to replace items with new equivalents.
This is a crucial upgrade for protecting everything from furniture to electronics and clothing.
Why This Matters for You and Your Clients
Addressing insurance coverage early in the transaction helps:
Prevent delayed closings
Reduce post-closing dissatisfaction
Strengthen your role as a trusted advisor
Thanks for all you do in our local market—I look forward to working together.
Best regards,
John Midwood
Sales Manager
Emery & Webb Insurance
If you need assistance, you can always call our office at 845-896-6727 24 hours a day.
Request a quote through our newly redesigned website at:
https://www.emerywebb.com/get-a-quote/
If you are already an Emery & Webb customer, you can use our GloveBox app to check on your coverage - Direct link:
https://my.gloveboxapp.com/?agencyId=1503
