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Key Takeaways
HO-5 = Broader Protection
Open-peril + RCV on dwelling and contents; ideal for newer/higher-value homes.
Deductibles Cut Premiums
Utah examples show ~8–12% savings from $1,000 → $2,500 deductibles.
Agent vs Direct
Independent agents compare carriers; direct online is faster with fewer options.
SLC Buyer Checklist
- Confirm rebuild cost basis and valuation method
- Check roof settlement terms (ACV vs RCV)
- Review exclusions: earthquake, flood, surface water
- Verify hail/wind deductibles and special perils
- Ask about discounts: bundle, alarms, impact-resistant roof
HO-3 vs HO-5 Policies: Which Fits Utah Homes?
The two most common Utah home insurance forms are HO-3 and HO-5. While HO-3 provides solid protection for many Salt Lake City homeowners, HO-5 delivers broader coverage, particularly for personal property and special perils. Your choice should reflect your home’s age, features, and risk tolerance for Utah-specific exposures like hail, winter storms, and earthquakes (typically excluded and purchased separately).
| Feature | HO-3 (Utah Typical) | HO-5 (Utah Typical) |
|---|---|---|
| Dwelling Perils | Open-peril (named exclusions) | Open-peril (named exclusions) |
| Personal Property Perils | Named-peril; endorsements often needed | Open-peril; broader built-in protection |
| Personal Property Settlement | Often ACV unless RCV endorsement | Typically RCV included |
| Best For | Standard risks; budget-sensitive buyers | Newer/higher-value homes; fewer coverage gaps |
| Common Utah Add-ons | RCV on contents, water backup, service line | Water backup, equipment breakdown, service line |
Utah-Specific Endorsements & Add-ons: Close the Gaps
Many Utah claims are driven by weather and water. These optional coverages address common gaps in both HO-3 and HO-5. Ask for written limits and settlement terms.
| Endorsement | What It Does | Typical Limit Options | Notes for SLC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water Backup | Backed-up drain/sump overflows | $5K / $10K / $25K+ | Frequent basement claims; confirm deductible |
| Service Line | Buried utility lines repair | $10K–$20K+ | Useful for older neighborhoods |
| Equipment Breakdown | Mechanical/electrical breakdown | $50K–$100K | HVAC and appliances; excludes wear/tear |
| Scheduled Property | Higher limits for jewelry, art, etc. | Itemized to appraised value | Avoids small sub-limits and ACV only |
| Ordinance or Law | Code upgrade costs | 10%–25% of A (or higher) | Important for older homes and municipalities |
| Roof Surface Loss Settlement | Specifies ACV or RCV on roof | Varies by material | Confirm hail handling; age-based schedules |
Quick Deductible Impact Calculator (Illustrative)
Estimated Annual Premium
Coverage Sizing Checklist for Salt Lake City Homes
Dwelling (A)
- Use replacement cost calculator, not market price
- Include code upgrades and demolition where applicable
- Review annually for construction inflation
Personal Property (C)
- Target 50–70% of A; inventory high-value items
- Prefer RCV; schedule items exceeding sub-limits
- Photograph rooms and receipts for proof
Liability (E)
- Start at $300K–$500K; consider $1M+ umbrella
- Match assets/income; review recreational risks
- Check dog breed and pool/trampoline underwriting
Loss of Use (D) & Others
- 20–30% of A for temporary living expenses
- Add water backup, service lines, equipment breakdown
- Confirm roof settlement and wind/hail deductibles
Claims Timeline in Utah: What to Expect
- Report the loss (Day 0): Call/app or agent. Mitigate further damage.
- Adjuster contact (24–72 hrs): Virtual or onsite; photos and receipts requested.
- Estimate & coverage review (3–10 days): Scope written; ACV vs RCV noted; deductibles applied.
- Initial payment (ACV)
- Repairs & supplements (varies): Contractors coordinate any changes; approvals required.
- Final payment (recoverable depreciation) upon proof of completion per RCV terms.
Home Insurance Glossary (Quick Reference)
- ACV: Actual Cash Value (depreciation deducted)
- RCV: Replacement Cost Value (new-for-old)
- Open-peril: All risks unless excluded
- Named-peril: Only listed causes of loss
- Endorsement: Add-on that changes coverage
- Ordinance/Law: Code upgrade costs after loss
- Scheduled Property: Itemized, higher-limit coverage
- Loss of Use: Temporary living expenses
- Sub-limit: Lower limit inside a broader limit
- Percentage Deductible: % of Coverage A (e.g., wind/hail)
Independent Agent vs Direct Online: Pros and Cons in Utah
Independent Agent
- Compares multiple Utah carriers for pricing and fit
- Advises on gaps (earthquake, flood, water backup)
- Local claims guidance and advocacy
- Potentially better fit for complex homes or history
Direct Online
- Fast application and instant price indications
- Simplified choices for standard risks
- Fewer carrier options; less personalization
- Good for basic needs and time-sensitive buyers
How to Compare Home Insurance Quotes in 10 Minutes
Prep (2–3 min)
- Know your ZIP, home square footage, roof age/type
- Decide on deductible target and required endorsements
- Set desired liability and contents settlement (RCV)
Compare (5–6 min)
- Collect 3–5 quotes (agent and/or direct online)
- Match: limits, deductibles, ACV/RCV, endorsements
- Note credits: bundle, alarms, impact-resistant roof
Decide (1 min)
- Choose the best blend of price and coverage fit
- Schedule binding and eDocs; set annual review reminder
Compare Utah Home Insurance in Minutes
Bundling + higher deductibles can save 8–20%. Start with your ZIP.
Side-by-Side Quote Comparison Template
| Category | Carrier A | Carrier B | Carrier C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form | HO-3 | HO-5 | HO-3 |
| Dwelling (A) | $400,000 | $400,000 | $400,000 |
| Personal Property (C) | $240,000 (ACV) | $260,000 (RCV) | $240,000 (RCV) |
| Liability (E) | $300,000 | $500,000 | $300,000 |
| Deductible | $1,000 | $2,500 | $1,000 |
| Key Endorsements | Water backup | Water backup, breakdown | Service line |
| Annual Premium | $1,350 | $1,250 | $1,300 |
Protect Your Home—Pay Less
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Smart Coverage, Better Price
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Frequently Asked Questions
HO-5 is broader and typically includes RCV on contents, making it a strong choice for newer or higher-value homes. HO-3 works for many standard risks but may need endorsements to match HO-5’s scope.
Pick the highest deductible you can comfortably afford. In Utah, moving from $1,000 to $2,500 often saves ~8–12% annually; to $5,000 can save more. Confirm peril-specific deductibles.
Independent agents compare multiple carriers and advise on gaps; direct online is convenient and quick. Many buyers start online and finalize with an agent.