Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve made it incredibly simple for you – complete this form and then our team of expert Bamboo Advocates will get started on your customized experience.

Homeowners insurance probably covers more than you think. With your policy, you’re covering your home and property for situations where damage is caused by extreme weather, vandalism, wildfires, and crime. It even protects you in situations where visitors or guests experience an injury accidentally caused by you. It’s best to chat with your Bamboo Insurance Agent on what all is covered and most applicable to your unique situation.

Most homeowner’s insurance policies help cover water damage inside the home if the cause is sudden and accidental. That means it would likely cover the cost to repair your ceiling or floor if a pipe bursts.On the flip side, homeowner’s insurance usually does not cover a slow leak that might’ve been dripping for years behind your refrigerator. It’s not a replacement for general ‘wear and tear’ on your home, but rather sudden and accidental perils. Additionally, homeowner’s insurance generally covers pipes in your home. It does NOT cover the pipes outside of your home that connect to the main water line in the street. If a pipe bursts there, you might need to pay to have someone dig up your front yard to repair the problem. If you think this kind of coverage could come in handy, ask your agent about ‘Service Line’ coverage.

Homeowner’s insurance typically covers the costs of removing the tree or shrub that fell on an insured structure. If a fallen tree doesn’t damage your home or other structures but blocks a driveway or ramp for the disabled, insurance may pay to have it removed.

Homeowners insurance MAY help cover damage to your home and belongings resulting from a wildfire. Given the high risk of wildfires in some areas, some insurance carriers may not be able to offer coverage for fires. In this case they may offer you a separate policy through the state. Check your policy carefully and double-check that you have the coverage you need.
If your home is in an area with a high risk of wildfire, you may need two insurance policies – one that covers fire and one that covers other perils such as theft, water damage and liability. Together these two policies should provide complementary coverage against most perils covered in a standard homeowner’s policy.

• Policy 1: The state of California has a FAIR (Fair Access to Insurance Requirements) program to provide fire insurance to homeowners who have trouble getting coverage from insurance companies. It will cover fire, but not other perils like theft, water damage or liability.
• Policy 2: If you have a FAIR plan policy to cover fire, your insurance company can offer you a DIC (Difference in Conditions) policy that covers perils that are not covered in the FAIR plan. This includes coverage for perils such as theft, water damage and liability.

Possibly! Pools, water slides, hot tubs, and trampolines can be considered an “attractive nuisance” because small children may be attracted to them and risk getting hurt or drowning. With that, most insurance companies require that pools and hot tubs be fenced. Ask your agent if your homeowner’s policy covers liability related to your pool, hot tub, water slide or trampoline.

Sure is! A homeowner’s policy provides different types of coverage for your belongings depending on the type and category of the item.

• Unscheduled personal property looks at your belongings in aggregate. Coverage is generally listed as a % of Coverage A (i.e., 50%). If you lost your home to a house fire, for example, you would need to replace everything: furniture, fixtures, bedding, clothing, etc.
• Scheduled personal property refers to types of goods that have separate sub-limits of coverage. Firearms, cash, photography equipment, computer equipment and jewelry all have set sub-limits in a standard homeowner’s policy, such as $5,000 per category. If you have an item worth more than the limit, such as an engagement ring valued at $15,000, you can usually purchase additional coverage for it by providing proof of purchase or an appraisal. If you have a special collection, please bring this up to your agent or an advocate at Bamboo to ensure that you’re covered.

That’s where we come in. We have a team of Advocates who will personalize your coverage, so it covers exactly what you need it to cover.

If you live in an earthquake-prone area, you should look at obtaining both. Let’s say an earthquake causes a fire, and that fire causes damage to your home. In that situation, your homeowners or renters insurance policy would come in for the save. However, if the earthquake directly causes damage to your home, that’s when that earthquake insurance would really come in handy.

You’ll have your Bamboo Insurance Agent to rely on (yes, an actual person)! In addition to that, we’ve thoughtfully stocked up our Resource Center with what we’ve heard is most important for you to have access to whenever you need it.

Maybe. To cover the cost of treating a dog bite, you would need to carry something called ‘animal liability’ coverage. This type of coverage may be included in a homeowner’s policy or may be available for additional cost. Keep in mind, there may not be available coverage for certain breeds of dog, so make sure to read your policy carefully.

Most slip and fall accidents will be covered, except when you, the homeowner, acted intentionally to cause the slip and fall. If a homeowner’s negligence causes the fall, such as having unmarked obstacles on the property, liability coverage may apply. If there is no negligence, no-fault medical coverage may apply.

Maybe. Depending on the state and circumstances, a contractor injured on your property may be covered by a homeowner’s liability insurance in coordination with state workers compensation insurance coverage. Homeowner’s insurance will not cover other scenarios with contractors such as poor workmanship.

We’re about to drop some industry terms on you, so brace yourself. If you’re starting out with insurance, it’s smart to get on good terms with these policy types.

• HO-3: A standard homeowner’s policy
• HO-4: Renter’s insurance to protects the belongings of someone renting a home or apartment; the owner of the unit would need a separate landlord insurance policy to protect the structure
• HO-5: A homeowner’s policy with broader coverage for additional perils
• HO-6: Insurance for someone who owns a condominium; the condo association will likely have coverage to protect the building and its common areas
• DP-1: Insurance for the owner (landlord) of a property that may be vacant
• DP-3: Insurance for the owner (landlord) for a property that is occupied by a tenant

Yes, but you probably don’t have it. Most standard homeowner’s insurance policies exclude short-term rentals. The owner of the home requires special insurance to cover the dwelling during rental periods. If you’re truly planning on pursuing this, contact an agent or the rental service for coverage options.

Your homeowners policy comes in handy for many things; but one thing it doesn’t cover is damage to your home, structures, and personal property caused by natural floods and mudslides caused by floods. Floods are more common than you think; and is actually one of the most frequent and expensive disasters for the U.S. (source: flooddefenders.org).

We’ve made it incredibly simple for you – complete this form and then our team of expert Bamboo Advocates will get started on your customized experience.

Hi, right here! It’s us! Your Bamboo Advocate will be your point person for obtaining renters coverage options through our vast network of trusted carriers that’s ideal for your specific situation. Get started here!

Good news, your Bamboo Advocate will walk you through that and help you pick coverage that feels like it was made just for you. Get started here!

It may seem typical coming from us, but renters’ insurance is incredibly important to get for your temporary living situations. And it protects more than you might think. From damage and theft to your personal property, to covering living arrangements in the event your rental becomes uninhabitable – renters’ insurance isn’t something to skip out on. It’s best to chat with a Bamboo Insurance Agent on your coverage options that are most applicable to your unique situation. Get started here!

Sorry, but no. You may split the rent, but you can’t split insurance coverage, so they’ll need to get their own policy. Additionally, there are other things renters’ insurance won’t cover, like your pet, flood damage, and other things. Our recommendation? You guessed it. Get with a Bamboo Insurance Agent to talk through it! Get started here.

Rental policies typically cover residents of your household who are related to you, married to you, or legally adopted by you. However, we highly recommend adding your spouse to your policy and chatting with your agent about coverage to ensure you’ve got enough for both sets of personal property.

You know it! Renters’ insurance covers stolen personal property (i.e., your most prized inanimate possessions), even outside of your rental. If you’re lost in your favorite book at a local bookstore, and your laptop that’s sitting next to you gets swiped, you’re covered (up to your policy’s personal property limit). Get with your agent to check what that limit is for your policy.

You’ll have your Bamboo Insurance Agent to rely on (yes, an actual person)! In addition to that, we’ve thoughtfully stocked up our Resource Center with what we’ve heard is most important for you to have access to, whenever you need it.

Maybe. To cover the cost of treating a dog bite, you would need to carry something called ‘animal liability’ coverage. This type of coverage may be included in a homeowner’s policy or may be available for additional cost. Keep in mind, there may not be available coverage for certain breeds of dog, so make sure to read your policy carefully.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t. Renters insurance is great for covering situations like vandalism, theft, fire, and other events; however, it generally doesn’t cause damage directly caused by earthquakes.

Sure doesn’t – and that’s not a jab at renters insurance! Renters insurance is amazing to have for coverage for the potential of theft, fire, and more. However, adding an extra layer of protection against natural flooding is like giving your home a superhero cape — it’s a smart move that can save the day! 

Auto insurance is great for the “what-ifs”. What happens if someone hits me? What happens if my car breaks down? What happens if it gets stolen? That’s where insurance comes in. Your Bamboo Advocate will help you find your perfect option by going through every ‘what-if’ you’re thinking about, and make sure your concerns are covered by your policy. Get started here!

We’ve made it incredibly simple for you – complete this form and then our team of expert Bamboo Advocates will get started on your customized experience.

It sure is! You can start by getting a quote from us through this form, then if we’re able to save you money and it makes sense to switch, we’ll guide you in the process to come over.

Take a breath – you’re covered. Even if someone who runs into you doesn’t isn’t insured, because you are, your policy will come in handy.

You’ll have your Bamboo Insurance Agent to rely on (yes, an actual person)! In addition to that, we’ve thoughtfully stocked up our Resource Center with what we’ve heard is most important for you to have access to, whenever you need it.

We can’t emphasize this enough – but flood insurance is the ONLY type of insurance that will cover the cost and repair of damage caused by floods. This includes covering your structure and personal property.

Your homeowners policy comes in handy for many things; but one thing it doesn’t cover is damage to your home, structures, and personal property caused by natural floods and mudslides caused by floods. Floods are more common than you think; and is actually one of the most frequent and expensive disasters for the U.S. (source: flooddefenders.org).

The location and the elevation of your home are just a couple of the items considered when pairing you with flood insurance. Our Bamboo Insurance Agency can help make that easy on you by shopping the options for you!

Sure doesn’t – and that’s not a jab at renters insurance! Renters insurance is amazing to have for coverage for the potential of theft, fire, and more. However, adding an extra layer of protection against natural flooding is like giving your home a superhero cape — it’s a smart move that can save the day!

When it comes to homeowners/renters insurance and flood insurance – we don’t look at it as a choice. You need your homeowners/renters insurance to protect against certain elements and situations, and if you’re in an area where flooding is common, obtaining flood insurance is a critical component to your overall coverage. Just a reminder, your homeowners/renters insurance will not cover natural flood-related damage to your home and personal belongings.

Earthquake insurance is a specialized type of insurance designed specifically for covering the cost and repairs of damage caused by earthquakes (since your standard homeowners won’t).  Earthquake insurance coverage ranges from structural damage to your home (e.g., your roof, damaged walls, etc.) to replacement of personal property (e.g., your furniture, appliances, etc.). If you need to find a temporary place to stay, it can also help to cover those expenses. Keep in mind, this isn’t a one-policy–covers-all type of insurance, so make sure you run through the details of exactly what your specific earthquake insurance policy covers with your agent.

Your homeowners policy will cover many things; but one thing it doesn’t cover is damage to your home, structures, and personal property caused by earth movement (i.e., an earthquake). If your home is in an earthquake-prone area, we highly recommend looking into obtaining earthquake insurance. Good news! Our Bamboo Insurance Agency can help with finding options for you.

When obtaining earthquake insurance, your location, the cost of rebuilding your home, and risk tolerance are considered. All these factors impact the cost.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t. Renters insurance is great for covering situations like vandalism, theft, fire, and other events; however, it generally doesn’t cause damage directly caused by earthquakes.

If you live in an earthquake-prone area, you should look at obtaining both. Let’s say an earthquake causes a fire, and that fire causes damage to your home. In that situation, your homeowners or renters insurance policy would come in for the save. However, if the earthquake directly causes damage to your home, that’s when that earthquake insurance would really come in handy.

Jewelry insurance is only as good as the company standing behind it. It’s why we offer our Bamboo Insurance Agency Advocates access to Jewelers Mutual Group—a company that’s been insuring jewelry and only jewelry for more than 100 years.

Coverage goes beyond typical homeowners or renters insurance to protect against common perils (loss, damage, theft, and disappearance).

Receive repair or replacement coverage for all types of jewelry, even loose stones while being set.

• Rings
• Necklaces
• Earrings
• Watches
• Bracelets
• Charms

*This information is reflective of our partner’s, Jeweler’s Mutual Group, offerings and may vary by jewelry insurance provider.

Insuring your jewelry with a standalone policy protects your home insurance from the effects of a jewelry claim.

Rates are based on several factors, including where you live. For most people, jewelry insurance costs 1-2% of the value of their jewelry.

With Jewelers Mutual, worrying about that is a thing of the past. You’re still covered, no matter where life takes you.*

*This information is reflective of our partner’s, Jeweler’s Mutual Group, offerings and may vary by jewelry insurance provider.

Yes, it is! Coverage is available in all 50 states.*

*This information is reflective of our partner’s, Jeweler’s Mutual Group, offerings and may vary by jewelry insurance provider.

There’s a plan for almost everyone, with deductibles as low as $0.*

*This information is reflective of our partner’s, Jeweler’s Mutual Group, offerings and may vary by jewelry insurance provider.

If something happens to your jewelry, you can work with your jeweler of choice to repair or replace your piece with the same kind and quality—like it was before.*

*This information is reflective of our partner’s, Jeweler’s Mutual Group, offerings and may vary by jewelry insurance provider.

It’s protection for you and your possessions when life gets tough. Having insurance will help cover the costs for certain things, to make those difficult situations a little bit lighter on you. Get started here!

We’re about to drop some industry terms on you, so brace yourself. If you’re starting out with insurance, it’s smart to get on good terms with these policy types.

• HO-3: A standard homeowner’s policy
• HO-4: Renter’s insurance to protects the belongings of someone renting a home or apartment; the owner of the unit would need a separate landlord insurance policy to protect the structure
• HO-5: A homeowner’s policy with broader coverage for additional perils
• HO-6: Insurance for someone who owns a condominium; the condo association will likely have coverage to protect the building and its common areas
• DP-1: Insurance for the owner (landlord) of a property that may be vacant
• DP-3: Insurance for the owner (landlord) for a property that is occupied by a tenant

Equipment breakdown is optional coverage that may help pay for the costs of repairing or replacing damaged or broken equipment after a covered incident. For example, if a power surge fries the computer equipment that manages your ‘smart home,’ this coverage may cover the cost of new equipment and programming. It may also cover your electronic equipment off premises. Keep in mind, it doesn’t cover wear and tear.

Service line is an optional coverage for damage to service lines outside your house but still on your property. These include phone lines, cable wiring, water, and sewer pipes outside of your house to the connections at the street or power pole. It covers the potentially costly expenses of excavation and repair of underground wiring and piping.

It’s a good thing. Inflation guard automatically increases your coverage by 4% each year to keep up with the cost of inflation. The cost of the labor and materials increases each year, driving up the total cost to rebuild your home. This feature increases your coverage A so you have additional protection.

Put simply, perils are bad things that cause loss or damage. Many types of insurance will provide coverage for “named perils”. With Named Peril Coverage, your policy helps pay to repair or replace your belongings only if they are damaged by the perils that are specifically listed in your policy. If the peril is not listed, it’s not covered. For example, a standard homeowner’s policy (H0-3) generally covers these 16 named perils:

• Fire and smoke
• Lightning strikes
• Windstorms and hail
• Explosions
• Vandalism and malicious mischief
• Damage from an aircraft, car, or vehicle
• Theft
• Falling objects
• Weight of ice, snow, or sleet
• Water damage

Examples
If a burglar steals your camera, would it be covered by the policy? It sure would! Theft is on your coverage list.
If you lost your camera on vacation, would it be covered by this policy? Nope! It would be treated as ‘disappearance’ rather than theft. The good news? Where it wouldn‘t be covered under an HO-3 policy, it would likely be covered under an HO-5 ‘all perils’ policy.

Best course of action? Reach out to an agent or Bamboo advocate to get clarity of where you (and your policy) stand in regards to peril.

You’ll have your Bamboo Insurance Agent to rely on (yes, an actual person)! We also have several ways to go about getting in touch with us which you can find on our Contact page.  In addition to those contacts, we’ve thoughtfully stocked up our Resource Center with what we’ve heard is most important for you to have access to, whenever you need it.