Buying your first home in Georgia: insurance checklist

Congratulations, homeowner!

Buying your first home in Georgia is exciting — whether you’re closing on a cozy spot in Douglasville or a new build outside Atlanta. Between inspections, appraisals, and packing boxes, insurance might feel like just another task.

But the right coverage can mean the difference between peace of mind and a financial headache later.

Here’s your first-time homeowner’s insurance checklist — a quick, friendly guide to help you protect your new place the right way from day one.

🏠 1. Start with

Homeowners Insurance (HO-3 Policy)

This is the core policy your lender will require before closing.

It covers three main things:

• Your home’s structure – if a storm, fire, or fallen tree causes damage.

• Your belongings – furniture, clothes, electronics, etc.

• Liability protection – if someone is injured on your property.

💡 Tip: Don’t just insure the purchase price — insure for the replacement cost. That’s what it would take to rebuild your home today, not what you paid for it.

💧 2. Check if You Need

Flood Insurance

Most Georgia homeowners don’t realize that standard home policies don’t cover flood damage.

Even if you’re not in a “high-risk” flood zone, heavy rains can still cause basement or crawlspace flooding.

✅ Check your property’s flood risk here: FEMA Flood Map Service Center.

If you’re anywhere near a creek, river, or low-lying area — it’s worth a conversation.

🌳 3. Ask About

Wind, Hail, and Storm Deductibles

Georgia weather can be unpredictable. Some policies have separate wind or hail deductibles, especially in areas hit by frequent storms.

👉 Review how much you’d actually pay out of pocket if a storm damages your roof.

Victor’s tip: aim for a deductible that balances affordability and risk tolerance — higher deductibles can lower your premium, but only if you’re comfortable paying that amount during a claim.

🚗 4. Bundle with Your

Auto Insurance

Bundling your home and auto policies can save you anywhere from 15–25% depending on the carrier.

Plus, it makes claim handling simpler if both are under one roof.

If you’re already with a carrier you trust, ask about multi-policy discounts — or let a broker like me shop multiple companies to find the best combo rate.

🧾 5. Protect Your

Personal Property

Think of everything you’d have to replace after a loss — furniture, clothes, electronics, even kitchen items.

Most policies default to Actual Cash Value (ACV) — which deducts for depreciation.

💡 Upgrade to Replacement Cost Coverage (RCC) so you’re reimbursed for the full cost to replace items new, not used.

🧍 6. Add

Personal Liability Coverage

If someone slips on your front steps or your dog accidentally injures a neighbor, liability coverage steps in.

• Standard policies include $100K — but $300K or $500K is smarter for most families.

• Add an umbrella policy for extra protection if you have assets or future income to protect.

🛠️ 7. Consider

Service Line, Equipment Breakdown, and Water Backup Endorsements

These small add-ons can save you thousands:

• Service Line Coverage: Repairs buried water/sewer lines between the street and your house.

• Equipment Breakdown: Covers things like HVAC or major appliances from mechanical failure.

• Water Backup: Covers damage from sump pump or drain backups (a common exclusion).

Each usually adds less than $10–15/month.

📦 8. Update Your

Coverage Each Year

Your home’s value, improvements, and even inflation all affect your coverage needs.

Do a quick annual review — especially if you:

• Renovate or finish a basement

• Add a deck or pool

• Buy expensive electronics or jewelry

That quick check ensures you’re never under-insured.

💬 Bonus Tip: Review Before You Close

Don’t wait until the week of closing. Lenders often need proof of homeowners insurance at least a few days before settlement.

Start quotes as soon as you’re under contract — that gives you time to compare coverages, not just prices.

🤝 Ready to Protect Your New Home?

Buying a house is a huge step — and the right insurance keeps it one you’ll always feel good about.

I’m Victor Jimenez, an independent insurance broker here in Georgia. I help first-time buyers like you find affordable coverage with trusted carriers — and explain everything in plain English.

➡️ Get Your Homeowners Quote Here

or

📞 Contact Me for a quick, no-pressure review.

FAQs

1. How much homeowners insurance do I need?

You should cover at least the full replacement cost of your home — not just what you owe on it.

2. Is flood insurance required in Georgia?

Only if your home is in a FEMA-designated flood zone, but anyone can buy it for extra protection.

3. When should I shop for homeowners insurance?

As soon as your offer is accepted — that gives you time to finalize coverage before closing.

About the Author

Victor Jimenez is a Georgia insurance broker. Known for top-rated service and fast response times, he helps Georgia families save money while protecting what matters most.